Portugal’s President Warns of Global Selfishness at UN Forum
Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa issued a stark warning at the opening of the 10th United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) Global Forum on Tuesday, declaring the gathering essential in a world increasingly “dominated by selfishness.”
Speaking at the Estoril Congress Center in Cascais, the President addressed a distinguished roster of global leaders, including UN Secretary-General António Guterres, King Felipe VI of Spain, and Cape Verdean President José Maria Neves. In his opening remarks, Rebelo de Sousa emphasized that the mission of the UNAOC—to foster dialogue and combat extremism—has never been more critical.
A Call for Unity Against Isolationism
“This meeting is urgent,” the President stated. “It is especially relevant in a world that, once again, finds itself dominated by selfishness, arrogance, intolerance, and isolationism.”
Rebelo de Sousa positioned Portugal as a natural host for such a mission, describing the nation as a “unique bridge between oceans and nations.” While acknowledging Portugal’s modest territorial size, he highlighted its vast maritime reach and the inclusive nature of its global diaspora. “What makes us truly great is our universal diaspora—kind and tolerant people who facilitate connection across the globe,” he said.
Honoring a Legacy of Peace
The forum also served as a moment of reflection on the history of the UNAOC. The President paid an emotional tribute to his predecessor, the late Jorge Sampaio, who served as the first UN High Representative for the Alliance of Civilizations between 2007 and 2013.
Describing Sampaio as a “great fighter for peace, fraternity, freedom, and human dignity,” Rebelo de Sousa noted that Sampaio’s legacy remains a guiding light for the organization’s current efforts to promote intercultural and interreligious cooperation.
Building Defenses Against Extremism
The UNAOC was established in 2005 to bridge divides and counteract the root causes of polarization and extremism. Under the current leadership of High Representative Miguel Ángel Moratinos, the 10th Global Forum continues this work through high-level diplomatic sessions and collaborative workshops.
Following the day’s sessions, the President will host a formal dinner for the heads of delegation and high-level dignitaries at the Cidadela Palace in Cascais, continuing the diplomatic outreach that has become a hallmark of the three-day event.
Image: Pexels – Hugo Magalhaes
