A REVIEW OF THE PORTUGUESE STRATEGIC CONCEPT OF NATIONAL DEFENCE: THE RESPONSE TO CHANGES IN THE INTERNATIONAL SYSTEM

Resumo

This article addresses the structural reconfigurations of the Strategic Concept of National Defence (SCND), analysing the influence of the dynamics of a volatile international system and the way in which Portuguese foreign policy adapts to these dynamics. A qualitative, interpretative methodology was adopted, based on a review of the literature and a comparative documentary analysis between the 2013 SCND and the 2023 Major Options of the SCND (MOSCND), supplemented by the study of official speeches and interviews. The first part provides a historical contextualisation of Portuguese foreign policy, with particular attention to priority areas and the planning of means of action within the international system, highlighting the evolution of core priorities. Subsequently, the current changes in the international landscape are analysed, demonstrating the need for a new approach in the face of emerging threats. The analysis identifies the main concerns for Portugal, highlighting the need for a rigorous new SCND to address structural weaknesses. It is concluded that, although Portugal maintains its traditional pillars (European, Atlantic and Lusophone), the effectiveness of the new Strategic Concept depends on overcoming weaknesses in the national strategic culture, greater investment in the Armed Forces and greater mobilisation of civil society around security and defence issues.