The High Representative for the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC), United Nations Under-Secretary-General Mr. Miguel Ángel Moratinos, was awarded the 30th North-South Prize of the Council of Europe for his lifelong dedication to promoting peace, advancing dialogue, and fostering mutual respect and understanding among cultures and religions.
The award was presented by H.E. Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, President of the Portuguese Republic, at a ceremony held in the Senate Chamber of the Assembly of the Portuguese Republic. The event, presided over by H.E. Mr. José Pedro Aguiar-Branco, President of the Assembleia da República, brought together several high-level dignitaries, including H.E. Mr. Alain Berset, Secretary-General of the Council of Europe; H.E. Ambassador Francesca Camilleri Vettiger, Chairwoman of the Executive Committee of the North-South Centre; and H.E. Ms. Edite Estrela, Head of the Portuguese Delegation to the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe, among other distinguished guests.
In his acceptance speech, the High Representative emphasized that the recognition belongs to all partners, faith leaders, young people, civil society actors, and communities, working tirelessly to promote understanding and build bridges across divides. He also dedicates this award to the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC).
“This prize is truly significant as it is a true reflection of the efforts to build one humanity — to make our diversity a source of peace. It is not only noble; it is necessary,” he said. “I accept this honor with gratitude, humility, and renewed commitment — to continue, with all of you, to make dialogue not merely a word we pronounce, but a way we live.”
The High Representative also extended his heartfelt congratulations to his fellow laureates — the Olympic Refuge Foundation, the International Olympic Committee and the International Paralympic Committee — for their tireless efforts to champion inclusion in sports.