Portugal chose the right side of freedom

The Portuguese Parliament generally approved CHEGA’s proposal that prohibits the use of clothing intended to hide the face in public spaces, a measure of courage, civilization and defense of the values ​​that shape our identity.

It is not about religion, but about dignity, security and respect for the Portuguese way of life.

In the 21st century, we cannot continue to pretend that wearing the burqa is a simple cultural choice. In the overwhelming majority of cases, it is not. It is an imposition, an instrument of control and submission of women that deprives them of freedom, equality and their own individuality. What is at stake is not the right to believe, but the right to be free.

CHEGA’s proposal, approved with the votes of the PSD, Liberal Initiative and CDS, brings Portugal into line with what is already practice in several European democracies, such as France, Denmark, Belgium, Austria or the Netherlands, where the full veil is prohibited in public spaces. These countries quickly understood that tolerance cannot be confused with surrender, and that the defense of human rights requires firmness in the face of customs that undermine the dignity of women.

The arguments raised against this measure reveal, once again, the hypocrisy of a certain left that, in the name of a false multiculturalism, turns a blind eye to female oppression. It is the same left that talks about gender equality, but remains silent when oppression is masked as religious tradition; which defends feminism on the avenues of Lisbon, but ignores women who, by force, are forced to hide their faces on the streets of Europe.

This law protects women and reinforces public safety. At a time when Europe faces increasing challenges of immigration, radicalization and insecurity, it is imperative that Portugal does not repeat the mistakes of other countries. Hiding one’s face in public spaces prevents identification, facilitates criminal anonymity and weakens the work of security forces. The right to security is a fundamental right and cannot be relativized.

Whoever arrives in Portugal has to respect Portugal. Respect our way of living, our values ​​and the non-negotiable principle of equality between men and women. No country can be built if it gives up its identity to please political correctness. And defending our rules is not xenophobia, it is sovereignty.

This ban is not an attack on anyone. It is an act of defense. It’s about protecting women who, in many cases, don’t have a voice to defend themselves. It is to affirm that, in this country, individual freedom and human dignity are non-negotiable. The exceptions provided for reasons of health, art, religion or security demonstrate balance and common sense. But the central message is unequivocal: Portugal will not tolerate the veil of submission over the face of its streets.

I am proud to see the Portuguese Parliament take this step. A step that is, above all, a cry for freedom. A sign that our country is not resigned to moral cowardice or cultural indifference.

Portugal is a country with open doors, but with its head held high. Whoever lives here must share the essential value that unites us: respect for human dignity.

And we stand alongside women who, often in silence, live trapped by impositions that they did not choose. It is on the side of a society that wants to be open, but that does not accept giving up its principles.

This proposal represents more than a political act, it is an assertion of sovereignty. It is to say, with courage, that Portugal will not bow to the pressure of political correctness nor to the moral blackmail of those who confuse tolerance with submission.

I consider this a historic step in defense of women, freedom and our national identity. Portugal is, and will continue to be, a country with open arms, but with an uncovered face.

Economist and deputy to the Assembly of the Republic