The funerals of globally significant political and religious leaders have long been occasions for collective mourning, yet in the contemporary geopolitical context, they have increasingly become platforms for strategic diplomatic engagement. The funeral of Pope Francis stands as a prime example of this evolution, where a solemn occasion to commemorate a revered global figure was also transformed into a rare diplomatic arena. These “working funerals” now represent pivotal junctures in international diplomacy, offering statesmen unparalleled opportunities to recalibrate alliances, address unresolved geopolitical conflicts, and subtly reshape the direction of global affairs.
Funeral diplomacy, while deeply rooted in history, has become far more consequential in recent decades. The practice gained prominence in the 1960s, when advances in air travel and preservation technologies allowed world leaders to attend funerals at short notice, creating a rare space for informal, behind-the-scenes dialogue. These moments, which were once purely reflective, increasingly evolved into strategic opportunities for discreet diplomatic exchanges, conversations that might not otherwise find a place in the rigid formalities of state summits or official visits.[1] By the 1980s, funeral diplomacy had firmly established itself as a key component of statecraft, with gatherings following the deaths of leaders such as Josip Broz Tito and Leonid Brezhnev catalyzing critical shifts in global diplomacy.
Pope Francis’ funeral, attended by representatives from 170 nations, exemplified this evolving diplomatic tradition. While primarily an occasion to mourn the passing of a pontiff who had served for over a decade[2], the funeral provided an exceptional opportunity for leaders to engage in private dialogues on matters of security, trade, and broader geopolitical concerns. Heads of state from across the globe gathered to honor the late Pope’s legacy, but behind the ceremonial expressions of grief, the event became a rare moment for leaders to discuss the challenges facing the world stage. This informal setting allowed for nuanced conversations that are often sidelined in the highly structured formats of international summits.
“Funerals of prominent political and religious leaders continue to create strategic opportunities for discreet diplomatic exchanges, conversations that might not otherwise find a place in the rigid formalities of state summits or official visits.”
The symbolic significance of presence and absence at such a gathering is profound. The participation of figures such as U.S. President Donald Trump and various European heads of state reaffirmed Pope Francis’ enduring influence in global affairs. In contrast, the notable absence of Russian President Vladimir Putin and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, both of whom are embroiled in ongoing international controversies, served as a potent diplomatic signal. Their absence was not only a reflection of their individual political challenges but also an implicit commentary on international diplomacy. In this instance, the absence of these leaders underscored the growing weight of legal and ethical considerations in shaping international relations, even during periods of collective mourning.
Beyond the symbolism of these absences, they point to deeper shifts in the international order. While the funeral of Pope Francis was undeniably a moment of shared grief, it also reflected broader changes in the geopolitical landscape. The juxtaposition of attending leaders and absent statesmen provided important insight into the evolving contours of global alliances. These gatherings, in this respect, serve as critical diplomatic moments, subtle yet decisive instances when the direction of international relations is quietly recalibrated.
A defining characteristic of funeral diplomacy is the opportunity it provides for private dialogue, often free from the public gaze. The seating arrangements at Pope Francis’ funeral, which deliberately distanced certain leaders, such as U.S. President Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, demonstrated a keen awareness of the delicate diplomatic dynamics at play. Yet, despite this physical separation, the event facilitated a crucial private meeting between the two leaders, who had previously clashed publicly. Their conversation, described by Zelenskyy as “historic,” centered on de-escalating the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with both leaders expressing hope for a “full and unconditional ceasefire.”[3]
This private dialogue exemplifies the inherent potential of funeral diplomacy: informal settings where leaders are able to engage in candid exchanges, free from the weight of formal protocol, and explore solutions to complex issues that have long defied resolution.
In many ways, the meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy encapsulates the true power of funeral diplomacy. These informal exchanges offer leaders the rare opportunity to speak openly, without the constraints imposed by public scrutiny and political posturing. It is within these spaces that meaningful dialogue can take place, dialogue that holds the potential to shift entrenched positions, bridge longstanding divides, and pave the way for pragmatic solutions to global challenges.
As funeral diplomacy continues to gain prominence, it is essential for both governments and multilateral institutions to rethink their approach to these events. States must recognize that funerals are not merely moments for public mourning but also rare opportunities for substantive diplomatic engagement. Foreign ministries should be proactive in preparing for such moments, identifying key figures for private conversations and crafting strategies for addressing pressing diplomatic issues in a flexible, informal environment. By doing so, they can ensure that these fleeting moments of convergence are used to their maximum diplomatic potential.
“Foreign ministries should be proactive in preparing for such moments, identifying key figures for private conversations and crafting strategies for addressing pressing diplomatic issues in a flexible, informal environment.”
Multilateral institutions, too, should acknowledge the strategic value of such gatherings. These occasions offer invaluable opportunities for peacebuilding, conflict resolution, and the strengthening of international partnerships. In an era of rising geopolitical uncertainty, funeral diplomacy provides a critical space for world leaders to engage in meaningful, often transformative, dialogue, working collaboratively to tackle global challenges.
While funeral diplomacy carries its inherent risks, such as the potential for diplomatic missteps or unintended political signals, the rewards are undeniable. The funeral of Pope Francis illustrated how these events, though grounded in mourning, can transcend their immediate purpose and become moments of profound diplomatic significance. In a world marked by increasing geopolitical tensions and shifting alliances, funeral diplomacy offers a unique opportunity for leaders to engage in impactful, behind-the-scenes discussions that could reshape the course of international relations.
The rise of funeral diplomacy signals a fundamental shift in how world leaders engage with both crises and opportunities. In these moments of collective mourning, there lies the potential for reconciliation, dialogue, and lasting change. This practice offers a vital avenue for reshaping international relations, fostering cooperation, and navigating the complexities of an increasingly interconnected world.
[1] Diplomacy 6c Statecraft, Vol.4, No.2 (July 1993), pp.217-34 PUBLISHED BY FRANK CASS, LONDON
[2] https://www.nbcnews.com/world/the-vatican/simple-ceremony-powerful-homily-pope-francis-funeral-morality-politics-rcna203132
[3] https://www.axios.com/2025/04/26/trump-zelensky-pope-funeral-meeting
About the author
Tesfaye Bezabih (PhD) is a lead researcher of Europe & America Affairs at the Institute of Foreign Affairs.
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The opinions stated in this article solely belong to the author and do not reflect the views or positions of the IFA