The Future of the UN: a European perspective

The Future of the UN: a European perspective takes place on 26 November 2026. Venue: French Institute of Scotland, Edinburgh.

UN House Scotland is delighted to invite you to a high-level panel discussion on “ The Future of the UN: A European Perspective ”, taking place on 26 November, from 10am to 1pm, at the Salle Émilienne Moreau-Evrard of the French Institute in Edinburgh. Bringing together diplomatic and academic perspectives, the discussion will feature Christiane Hullmann, Consul General of Germany; Luca Fratini, Consul General of Italy; Stéphane Pailler, Consul General of France; and Dr Megan Dee of Stirling University, presenting a UK perspective. The panel will be moderated by Rufus Hornyold-Strickland, followed by a Q&A session chaired by Rae Borland. Against the backdrop of the Pact for the Future and ongoing discussions on UN reform under the UN80 initiative, the event will explore how European countries envision the future of the United Nations and its role in an evolving multilateral system. Particular attention will be given to the different perspectives each country brings, reflecting their distinct positions and memberships: France and the UK as permanent members of the Security Council, Germany as a member of the G4 nations, and Italy as a leading member of the Uniting for Consensus Group. The discussion will consider how differing national perspectives contribute to efforts to strengthen the UN's effectiveness, legitimacy and capacity to respond to global challenges. As a civil society organisation committed to advancing the values and goals of the United Nations at the grassroots level, UN House Scotland seeks to make international affairs more accessible and encourage meaningful public engagement. This event offers an opportunity for young people, members of civil society and diplomats to exchange ideas and contribute to the wider conversation about the future of the United Nations.