Diplomatic Conference on the “80 Years of the United Nations: The Future of Multilateralism, UN System Reform and Portugal’s Contribution”

On 22 October 2025, the Institute for Higher Social and Political Sciences (ISCSP) hosted the conference “80 Years of the United Nations: The Future of Multilateralism, UN System Reform, and Portugal’s Contribution”. Organized by the Diplomatic Institute of the Portuguese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the United Nations Regional Information Centre, and ISCSP, the event commemorated a milestone of global significance by fostering a constructive debate on the evolution of multilateral governance.

Held under the High Patronage of the President of the Portuguese Republic, the conference addressed pressing issues such as the implementation of the Pact for the Future, the reform of the UN system, and the challenges facing international cooperation in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape. The discussions also highlighted Portugal’s 70th anniversary as a UN member, reaffirming its commitment to peace and security, sustainable development and human rights.

The program featured distinguished speakers from government, academia, and international organizations, including a video message from UN Secretary-General António Guterres, and a keynote speech by Portugal’s Minister of State and for Foreign Affairs, Paulo Rangel. Panels explored topics such as the feasibility of UN reform, the future of multilateralism, and Portugal’s role in peacekeeping and global governance.

This initiative underscored the enduring relevance of the United Nations and Portugal’s proactive stance in shaping a more inclusive and effective multilateral system for the decades ahead.