Report by Ms. Paula Helena Santos, the Municipality of Évora, Portugal
Organized by Évora City Council and framed within the concept of “VAGAR” —an inspiring theme of Évora 2027 — European Capital of Culture-and also marking, in 2025, the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the conference “What About Peace?” brought to the Palácio de D. Manuel on May 21st, 2025, two prominent figures, recognized for their ongoing work and for what they represent in defending the right to peace among peoples: Víctor Ângelo, a native of Évora and former Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General with an extensive record as a conflict mediator around the world, and Pilar Del Rio, journalist, writer, and President of the José Saramago Foundation.
Both participated in an open roundtable discussion moderated by journalist Luís Matias from “Diana FM” radio, with the session broadcast live on the station. The discussion addressed the various ongoing conflicts that continue to shape global war agendas —their dynamics, motivations, contexts, and consequences. More importantly, it reflected on the role each of us, individually or collectively, can play in the defence of peace.
The conference also featured Álvaro Ferrer Vecilla, Vice President of the Granollers City Council, a leading city in the European network of Mayors for Peace.
The opening address was delivered by Carlos Pinto de Sá, Mayor of Évora, which holds the status of leading city in Portugal for this global organization of local governments dedicated to achieving peace, disarmament, and the elimination of nuclear weapons.
At the end, musician António Bexiga, from Évora, closed the day with an artistic performance on his Viola Campaniça, bringing to a close this moment of debate and reflection on the increasingly necessary and urgent pursuit of peace in the world.
Photos: courtesy of the Municipality of Évora