50th session of the Human Rights Council
Item 3
Interactive Dialogue with the
Independent Expert on protection against violence and discrimination
based on sexual orientation and gender identity
Geneva, 16 May 2022, 3 p.m.
Statement by Portugal
Statement by H.E. Permanent Representative of Portugal to
the United Nations and other International Organizations in Geneva,
Ambassador Rui Macieira
Mr. President,
Mr. Madrigal-Borloz,
Portugal aligns with the statement delivered by the EU.
We would start by thanking you, Mr. Madrigal-Borloz, for your tireless work since 2018 in the protection against violence and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Portugal firmly supports this mandate and urges the Council to renew it by approving the resolution to this end.
We reiterate our firm commitment to respect, protect and fulfil the human rights of LGBTI+ persons and to promote them all over the world. We strongly oppose all forms of discrimination and violence based on sexual orientation and gender identity, and we condemn any laws, policies and practices that further this discrimination.
In the past decade, Portugal made intense efforts in this area. In 2010, we approved same-sex marriage; in 2016, we eliminated discrimination in the access to adoption and to medically assisted reproduction; in 2018, we recognized the right to self-determination with regard to gender identity.
Our National Strategy for Equality and Non-Discrimination (2018-2030) comprises a specific Action Plan on combatting discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity and sexual characteristics.
However, stigmatization, fears and misconceptions are still commonplace in Portugal and around the world. LGBTI+ persons do not yet enjoy full, equal, effective and meaningful participation in all spheres of public and private life.
We can and must do more. Mr. Madrigal-Borloz, you can count on Portugal’s collaboration to protect and promote the human rights of all LGBTI+ persons.
Thank you.
