About the Conference

As the mandate of United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres approaches its conclusion in December 2026, the international community is beginning to reflect on the leadership, priorities and qualities required to guide the Organisation through one of the most challenging periods in its history.

The United Nations faces a complex international environment marked by geopolitical tensions, armed conflicts, climate change, technological disruption, growing inequalities and declining trust in multilateral institutions. At the same time, it remains a cornerstone of the international rules-based order and an essential platform for international cooperation.

The appointment of a new Secretary-General provides an important opportunity for Member States, civil society, academia and young people to reflect on the future of multilateralism and the leadership needed to strengthen the United Nations.

Against this backdrop, the Conference will bring together former and current senior UN officials, diplomats, government representatives, academics, youth leaders and civil society representatives for an inclusive dialogue on the future of UN leadership after 2026. Discussions will address the evolving role of the Secretary-General, the priorities and qualities expected of the next leader, and the challenges facing the Organisation in an increasingly fragmented international system.

Portugal occupies a unique position in this debate. Having provided the current Secretary-General and maintaining a longstanding commitment to multilateral diplomacy, Portugal is well placed to convene an international dialogue on the future of the United Nations and the renewal of confidence in multilateral cooperation.

The Conference will also highlight the contribution of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) to international peace, sustainable development and global governance, while providing young people with a platform to share their vision for the future of the United Nations.

We invite you to join us in Lisbon for this timely and important conversation. Come and be part of the dialogue on the future of the United Nations, hear from leading international voices, and contribute to a shared reflection on the leadership and multilateralism the world will need in the years ahead.

The full programme will be available shortly.