70 Years of history

Portugal participates for the first time in a UN Peacekeeping Mission (UNOGIL, Lebanon).

Following the Carnation Revolution, Portugal aligns its foreign policy with democratic and multilateral principles, strengthening its engagement with the UN.

Portugal assumes its first non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council (UNSC).

• Portugal actively supports the self-determination of Timor-Leste, advocating for its independence through diplomatic efforts.

Diogo Freitas do Amaral serves as President of the General Assembly (PGA) during its 50th session, becoming the first Portuguese national to hold this prestigious position.

Portugal holds its second non-permanent seat on the UNSC, contributing to addressing global conflicts, including its advocacy for Timor-Leste’s independence.

Portugal leads advocacy efforts for the designation of the International Year of the Ocean, raising global awareness on the importance of protecting marine ecosystems and promoting sustainable ocean management.

The UN authorizes the deployment of the International Force for East Timor (INTERFET), with strong Portuguese backing, leading to Timor-Leste’s eventual independence in 2002.

Portugal strengthens its role in UN peacekeeping operations, contributing with troops and expertise to missions such as UNIFIL (Lebanon) and later MINUSMA (Mali).

António Guterres, a former Portuguese Prime Minister, is appointed as UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), leading efforts to address global displacement crises.

Jorge Sampaio, a former President of Portugal, is appointed as High Representative of the UN Secretary-General for the Alliance of Civilizations, fostering intercultural and interreligious dialogue.

Portugal secures its third non-permanent seat on the UNSC, focusing on themes such as the Responsibility to Protect (R2P), the climate-security nexus and African peace and security.

In January, Portugal announces its next candidacy to the UNSC, for the 2027-2028 mandate.

Portugal is elected to the Human Rights Council (HRC), underlining its commitment to the promotion of universal human rights and freedoms.

António Guterres takes office as the ninth Secretary-General of the United Nations, becoming the first Portuguese national to lead the organization.

Portugal deploys a Quick Reaction Force (QRF) to MINUSCA in the Central African Republic, enhancing peace enforcement and civilian protection.

António Vitorino is elected Director General of the International Organization for Migration (IOM), materializing Portugal’s commitment to safe, orderly and regular migration.

Portugal, in collaboration with Kenya, hosts the second United Nations Ocean Conference in Lisbon, focusing on scaling up ocean action for achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Portugal presents its second Voluntary National Review (VNR) on the implementation of the 2030 Agenda, sharing its good practices and challenges in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Portugal hosts the 10th Global Forum of the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC) in Lisbon, promoting dialogue and cooperation among diverse cultures and religions.