Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa Speaks Out: War, Euthanasia & Post-Presidency Life

Former President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa Delivers Post-Belém Remarks, Despite Prior Commitments

Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, having concluded his decade-long presidency on March 9th, made his first public appearance on March 18th, sparking discussion about his continued engagement with public life. The former President presented the book "Pensar a Constituição à Luz da Doutrina Social da Igreja" at the Catholic University in Lisbon, using the occasion to address themes of war, ethics, and the right to life – issues he had previously indicated he would refrain from commenting on after leaving office. This appearance and the content of his remarks have drawn attention, particularly given his earlier pledge to withdraw from active political and civic commentary.

A Shift from Silence?

Just days after leaving the Palácio de Belém, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa appeared to deviate from his stated intention to “exit the stage,” as he put it during his farewell address. He had assured the public he would resist “bets from friends” that he wouldn’t be able to remain silent. However, at the Catholic University event, he delivered a speech touching on sensitive topics, including the morality of modern warfare and the ongoing debate surrounding euthanasia in Portugal. News outlet Notícias ao Minuto reported that he had guaranteed he would cease any political or civic activity upon leaving office.

Concerns Over Autonomous Weapons and Algorithmic Warfare

A central theme of Rebelo de Sousa’s address was a strong condemnation of what he termed the “immoral” nature of allowing weapons – and the algorithms that control them – to operate without human oversight. He argued that permitting such systems to decide matters of war and peace is deeply problematic. According to Rádio Renascença, he stated, “Immoral is allowing weapons of all kinds, as well as the algorithms that support them, to fire and kill to decide military, cultural, social, behavioral wars and peace, without human control.” This statement reflects a growing global concern about the ethical implications of increasingly autonomous weapons systems.

Euthanasia and the Defense of Life

The former President also alluded to the contentious issue of euthanasia, a topic currently facing legislative hurdles in Portugal. While not directly addressing the stalled regulatory process for the law approved during the previous Socialist Party majority, Rebelo de Sousa emphasized the “urgency of defending life, the person, health, communication, participation.” This subtle intervention comes as the current government has faced criticism for its delay in implementing the regulations necessary for the law to take effect.

Unfulfilled Promises and “New Challenges”

During his speech, Rebelo de Sousa also addressed a commitment he made during his presidency – to ensure housing for all homeless individuals. He acknowledged that this goal remained unfulfilled, attributing the shortfall to “new challenges” that arose over the course of his ten years in office. He suggested that ongoing and future challenges will necessitate different approaches to addressing social issues. He underscored the importance of “love” in navigating these complexities, framing it as a continuing challenge for all.

A Decade in Belém: Context and Legacy

Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa’s ten years as President of Portugal were marked by a distinctive style characterized by constant proximity to the public and intensive communication. As Euronews reported in January 2026, this approach initially garnered him historically high levels of popularity, though signs of weariness emerged during his second term.

Throughout his presidency, Rebelo de Sousa worked with two Prime Ministers – António Costa and Luís Montenegro – and oversaw four legislative elections, with three occurring during his second mandate. A defining feature of his presidential style was the frequent dissolution of the Assembly of the Republic, a measure he employed in response to political gridlock and judicial investigations. While supporters viewed this as a means of ensuring the proper functioning of institutions, critics argued it contributed to increased political instability.

The Departure from Belém

On March 9th, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa officially departed the Palácio de Belém, expressing gratitude to the staff of the Civil House who had supported him throughout his decade in office. CNN Portugal documented the event, noting the clock struck 9:00 AM as he exited the palace for the final time. Prior to his departure, reports surfaced indicating that Rebelo de Sousa engaged in a significant series of purchases, including cars, computers, furniture, and appliances, in the final three months of his presidency.

What Happens Next?

It remains unclear what level of public engagement Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa will maintain following his presidency. His recent speech suggests a willingness to contribute to public discourse, despite his earlier assurances to the contrary. The extent to which he will continue to address politically sensitive topics, and whether this represents a departure from his stated intentions, remains to be seen. His future actions will likely be closely watched by both supporters and critics as they attempt to assess the long-term impact of his presidency and his evolving role in Portuguese public life.