The first National Pediatric Palliative Care Congress in Portugal brought together nearly 200 professionals, researchers and advocates in Coimbra for three days of learning, exchange and reflection. Organised by the Associação Portuguesa de Cuidados Paliativos (APCP) with the support of the La Caixa Foundation and the Floriani Foundation and the Regional Centre of the Portuguese League against Cancer (Núcleo Regional do Centro LPCCR) the landmark event marked an important step forward in strengthening pediatric palliative care across the country.
Held at the Faculty of Medicine of the University of Coimbra and at the Pediatric Hospital – ULS Coimbra, from 16–18 April 2026, under the theme “From complexity to opportunity,” the congress created a space for interdisciplinary dialogue focused on improving care for children with complex chronic conditions and their families. Highlights from the programme include combined plenary sessions, parallel discussions, workshops and research presentations, reflecting both the scientific depth and practical challenges of the field.
International collaboration was a key feature. Experts including ICPCN’s Julia Downing, Federico Pellegatta and Sergi Navarro contributed perspectives on sustainability, standards of care, and advance care planning. Their contributions reinforced the importance of global knowledge exchange in addressing shared challenges and building resilient care systems equipped to embrace complexity.
The programme addressed a wide range of topics, from decision-making and neonatal end-of-life care to psychosocial and spiritual needs, technological innovation, and family engagement. Dedicated sessions explored emerging areas such as artificial intelligence in healthcare, community-based interventions, and the role of caregivers’ experiences in shaping services. Workshops also tackled critical issues including moral distress among professionals and home-based care, underlining the need to support both families and healthcare teams.
Beyond the scientific programme, the congress emphasised community and shared purpose. A symbolic moment was the introduction of “Pali,” a mascot representing pediatric palliative care in Portugal, bringing sense of identity and warmth and visibility to the field. The closing sessions looked ahead, with reflections on the past, present and future of the field and a call to action to expand access and quality of care globally and nationwide.
Above all, the congress highlighted the voices and experiences of children and families, placing them at the centre of every discussion. Many parents, together with other philanthropic organisations, continue to shape and strengthen the care system, through associations and advocacy, ensuring that services remain compassionate, inclusive and responsive. Featured associations include: Calioásis, Pedrinhas, Doce; Fundação do Gil, Operação Nariz Vermelho.
This first national congress, driven by compassion and collaboration, not only celebrated progress but also set a clear direction: advancing pediatric palliative care as a priority that cannot wait.
By Ines Dias da Silva, Faculty of Medicine, University of Coimbra.