It is an exaggeration to claim that the Third World War has already begun. While recent escalations in the Middle East, the ongoing war in Ukraine, and other global conflicts demonstrate a disregard for international law, they do not constitute a global war. The author argues that the true crisis lies in the erosion of multilateralism and the lack of respect for international norms. As Portugal campaigns for a seat on the UN Security Council for 2027-2028, it must advocate for a revitalised, more representative, and consensus-driven system to address these complex geopolitical challenges.