10th UNAOC Global Forum: Cascais Hosts Landmark Dialogue for Intercultural Dialogue 

The coastal city of Cascais became the epicentre of global intercultural and interreligious dialogue as it hosted the 10th Global Forum of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) from November 25 to 27, 2024. Under the theme “United in Peace: Restoring Trust, Reshaping the Future – Reflecting on Two Decades of Dialogue for Humanity”, the event marked a pivotal moment in promoting intercultural understanding and cooperation. 

Hosted by Portugal, the forum gathered an impressive array of participants, with over 110 Member States represented, and more than 1500 participants overall: Heads of State and Government, Ministers, international organizations, religious leaders, civil society representatives, academics, youth activists, and private sector leaders. The discussions focused on urgent global challenges, including peace and security, combating hate speech, interfaith dialogue, and inclusive education. 

The program featured plenary sessions, thematic panels, and a Youth Forum at the historic Fort of São Julião da Barra. A highlight was the Ministerial Meeting of the UNAOC Group of Friends, where a Political Declaration was adopted, reaffirming commitments to intercultural dialogue and multilateral cooperation.

Key speakers included UN Secretary-General António Guterres, President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa of Portugal, and UNAOC High Representative Miguel Ángel Moratinos, alongside former global leaders and prominent voices from diplomacy, academia, and the private sector. 

The forum also celebrated 20 years since the Alliance of Civilizations initiative was launched in 2004. As the curtains closed in Cascais, the message was clear: restoring trust is essential to reshape a future grounded in dialogue and mutual respect.