Civil liberties news in Portugal

More than 200 legal professionals sign open letter for the 'right to protest'

Over 200 legal experts from across the country have signed an open letter defending the right to protest, in response to police actions taken against housing rights demonstrations in Lisbon and Porto. Lawyers, law students, and judicial professionals expressed deep concern regarding recent rhetoric and practices that threaten the freedom of assembly and other fundamental rights, including the right to housing. The letter highlights that the right to protest is not a political concession but a fundamental democratic right that does not require authorization. The signatories criticize attempts to frame social dissent as a public security issue and call for accountability regarding the recent police interventions, which involved the use of batons, rubber bullets, and police dogs against protesters camping in public squares. Demonstrators are demanding an end to evictions, restrictions on real estate investment funds, and more accessible public housing.

This regulation approved right after the 25th of April, when television was in black and white, is considered restrictive to the right to protest

The right to protest does not require authorisation, even in public spaces. However, a 1974 decree-law allows for protests to be interrupted and limits to be imposed — and it remains in force, despite doubts regarding its constitutionality. Is it full freedom, after all? Nuno Rogeiro explains in this edition of Leste Oeste.

Are encampments prohibited? Jurists state that the Constitution protects protesters and recall previous cases

PSP interventions at encampments have opened a debate regarding the limits of freedom of assembly. Are tents prohibited? Jurists reflect on the matter. Most argue that the Constitution protects protesters.

Anti-transgender movement: an external intervention in Portugal

Discriminatory laws like these are a classic fascist tactic to introduce authoritarian control. The ultimate goal is not to oppress trans people. The goal is to limit everyone's freedom. Opinion by S.I. Rosenbaum

Portugal’s face veil ban leaves Muslim women fearing for their rights and safety

Middle East Eye20 Oct

The invisible erosion of freedom of speech

A report published this week indicates that Portugal has regressed in democratic quality indicators over the last five years. The 2026 Global State of Democracy report places Portugal among the European countries that have seen the sharpest decline in election credibility and civil liberties, including freedom of speech and freedom of the press. The V-Dem (Varieties of Democracy) study from the University of Gothenburg also places Portugal, for the first time, on its watchlist of countries at risk of autocratisation. While other rankings like Freedom House and Reporters Without Borders remain more positive, the Media Pluralism Monitor warns of growing risks, such as media concentration, job insecurity, and criminal defamation. The author argues that a climate of political polarisation and social censorship is leading to self-censorship, where individuals choose silence over the risk of public humiliation or being 'cancelled' for deviating from politically correct narratives. The piece concludes that even though Portugal is not comparable to authoritarian regimes, it is vital to protect these freedoms before they decline further.

Freemasonry? With liberals like these, we are doomed

I hope we continue to defend the right of no one being forced to declare what they do in their private life or which allegiances they belong to. It is called freedom. Opinion by Pedro Adão e Silva

In defence of those who defend Human Rights

This article explores the shrinking global civic space and the increasing repression faced by human rights defenders. It highlights how political shifts, such as the dismantling of USAID, and the rise of 'foreign agent' laws are undermining civil society. The text details the dangers faced by activists worldwide—from Colombia to the Philippines and Palestine—and notes growing concerns regarding civil liberties in Europe, including France and Portugal, emphasizing that a robust democracy requires an active and protected civil society.

Portugal’s Face Covering Ban Draws Criticism from Rights Groups

ShiaWaves21 Jul

Portugal: Blanket ban on face coverings threatens several human rights

Amnesty International17 Jul

Report warns of erosion of civic freedoms and normalisation of xenophobia in Portugal

Data privacy violations, abusive police repression of peaceful protests, lack of funding for organisations, and the rise of the far-right are some of the warnings in a report by the European Civic Forum and the Civic Space Observatory regarding the Portuguese public sphere. Despite the regression in several areas, Portugal remains one of the countries with the most 'open' public space.

Growth of the far-right and increased police repression: report warns of 'deterioration of civic freedoms' in Portugal

A new report highlights concerns regarding the rise of far-right movements and heightened police activity, suggesting a decline in civil liberties within the country.

Report warns of police repression and the rise of the far-right in Portugal

A new report highlights concerns regarding police conduct and the growing influence of far-right political movements within the country.

ADN criticises celebrations during a time of "gradual erosion" of freedoms in Portugal

The ADN party expresses concern over national celebrations amidst what it describes as a slow decline in civil liberties within the country.

dnoticias.pt25 Apr

IL sides with the left in the debate on bills seeking to impose barriers to gender transition

The parliamentary debate exposed opposing positions between left-wing and right-wing parties. The Liberal Initiative ultimately considered the bills from the PSD, CDS, and Chega to be an attack on individual freedom. The vote on the proposals will take place this Friday.