Latest news and stories about equality in Portugal for expats and residents.
In a powerful reflection, Manuel Alegre's poem highlights the dangers of political alliances with extremist groups. The article discusses the troubling actions of a Chega member who allegedly sought votes and protection from a group known for its Nazi and fascist ideology. It condemns the normalization of such alliances in politics, emphasizing the need to resist and stand against these ideologies in the name of equality and justice.
An analysis of the concept of equality, distinguishing between legal equality and substantive inequality. The text argues that while biological differences are inherent, social inequalities can and should be mitigated through compensatory public policies, such as progressive taxation, free education, and social support, as a permanent commitment to a fairer society.
The Democratic Women's Movement (MDM) is organising protests in 16 cities this Sunday to “ensure a large collective mobilization for dignity and equality of rights” on International Women's Day.
More than a hundred people demonstrated this Friday in downtown Lisbon, in a protest organised by CGTP, to demand equality between men and women and to oppose a labour package they believe will worsen women's working conditions. “The equality that April opened, reinforcing rights, fulfilling the constitution” was read on the banner leading the march from Largo de Camões towards the parliament. Other messages on participants' placards included “Labour package = labour regression” and “Labour Package is a Constitutional Danger”, with chants advocating for equal rights, wages, labour rights, public health and education, and peace. Cristina Calado, 64, told Lusa that she has participated in various struggles throughout her life and attended this protest because equality between men and women “is a goal still to be achieved”, although she stated she has never felt discriminated against at work for being a woman. When asked if she believes there are risks of regression in already achieved rights, she said it would only happen if women “allow it”. Nuno Matos noted that in the banking sector, it is still common for women in equal leadership positions to earn less than men in the same roles. He added that women are penalised in evaluations and bonuses when they have children. “Equal pay is urgent in Portugal,” was one of the slogans heard during the march, where many demonstrators carried red carnations. This protest is organised by the Commission for Equality between Women and Men of CGTP-IN. Fátima Messias, coordinator of this commission, told Lusa that although equality is enshrined in the Constitution, it is often undermined by the laws themselves. She explained that when labour legislation contradicts constitutional principles, it undermines the right to secure employment. The CGTP's general secretary, Tiago Oliveira, stated that the struggle of working women is central to achieving equality and described the government's proposed labour package as a significant attack on women, as they are more susceptible to precariousness and low wages. The CGTP is holding a week of equality from March 2 to 8 under the slogan “The Equality that April Opened. Reinforcing Rights. Fulfilling the Constitution”, with initiatives across the country. International Women's Day is celebrated on March 8.
