Strengthening Multilateralism Through Knowledge: Portugal Supports New Edition of UN Security Council Training Initiative
From 20 to 22 May 2026, the United Nations Headquarters in New York will host the second edition of the “Briefing for Delegates on the Work of the United Nations Security Council”, a training initiative organized by UNITAR in partnership with Portugal and the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs (DPPA). Open to all diplomatic missions accredited to the United Nations, the programme brings together diplomats, UN officials and experts to deepen understanding of the Security Council’s procedures, working methods and decision-making dynamics.
At a time when questions of international peace and security remain at the center of global diplomacy, Portugal believes that a more effective, transparent and accountable Security Council also depends on a better-informed wider membership. The growing interest in this initiative reflects a broader recognition that understanding the Council’s formal rules and informal practices is not just expertise useful for the 15 Council members alone, but an essential diplomatic skill for all delegations engaging in multilateral affairs in New York.
Over the course of two days, participants will explore topics ranging from the programme of work and Council documentation to sanctions committees, the use of the veto, relations with regional organizations and the coordination dynamics of elected members. The programme also provides practical insights into how non-members can engage more effectively with the Council’s work, contributing to greater inclusiveness and transparency within the UN system.
Portugal is particularly proud to support an initiative that combines technical expertise with broader political relevance. Capacity-building efforts of this nature help preserve institutional memory within the United Nations and democratize access to knowledge on one of the Organization’s most important bodies. They also contribute to strengthening trust in multilateral institutions by enabling more informed participation from the wider UN membership, including smaller delegations with limited resources.
The sessions are also being broadcast live on UN WebTV, allowing diplomats and stakeholders beyond the conference room to follow the discussions. Portugal remains committed to supporting initiatives that reinforce effective multilateralism, strengthen dialogue among Member States, and promote a more inclusive and transparent engagement on matters of international peace and security.
Link on UN WebTV: https://webtv.un.org/en/asset/k1j/k1j5cbv85k
