Far-Right Agenda
Far-Right Agenda
ITS URGENT. ITS NOW
RACISM IN PORTUGAL AND ITS DENIAL
505%
Between 2017 and 2021, reports of xenophobia against Brazilians in Portugal increased by 505%
74%
74% of Portuguese Roma faced "great difficulties in making ends meet.
29%
29% of Afro-descendants in Portugal live in inadequate housing conditions, while the European average is 5%.
1000%
Ten times more citizens from PALOP countries over the age of 16 are imprisoned in Portugal compared to the number of Portuguese citizens.
80%
80% of PALOP students are directed to vocational training in secondary school, limiting access to higher education.
STRUCTURAL RACISM
In Portugal, structural racism is a profound and persistent issue, deeply embedded in the country's social and institutional fabric. Despite its prevalence, there is a widespread national denial of the existence and impact of racism, further entrenching discriminatory practices and attitudes.
DENIAL OF RACISM AND LACK OF CRIMINALIZATION
One of the most significant challenges in addressing racism in Portugal is the pervasive denial of its existence and impact. Racism is often dismissed as a minor or non-existent issue, which hampers the development and implementation of effective anti-discrimination policies. Moreover, the absence of specific legal provisions criminalizing racism in the Portuguese penal code makes it difficult to hold perpetrators accountable and to protect victims effectively
The recent data on racism in Portugal shows a concerning increase in incidents of racial discrimination and xenophobia. In 2023, there was a 38% increase in hate crimes compared to the previous year. (Publico)
(Brief News - Hate Crimes Surge by 38% in Portugal)
This data reveals a significant growth in the manifestation of racist and xenophobic sentiments, particularly on digital platforms like Facebook and the comment sections of newspapers.
Furthermore, hate speech is frequently directed at various communities, including Afro-descendants, Roma, refugees, and immigrants. Afro-descendants, for example, face a perpetuation of colonial ideology, while the Roma communities are targets of deep-seated and entrenched anti-Roma sentiments. Refugees and African immigrants also suffer from Islamophobia and undue associations with terrorism.
Reports of xenophobia against Brazilian immigrants have increased by 505% in recent years, highlighting the severity of the problem. These incidents of racism have significant impacts on the mental health of victims, with many reporting anxiety, powerlessness, and fatigue (Observador).
ITS URGENT. ITS NOW
THE RISE OF HATE SPEECH IN PORTUGAL: AN EMERGING THREAT
THE RISE OF FAR-RIGHT EXTREMISM IN PORTUGAL: CHEGA! PARTY AND ITS IMPACT ON HATE SPEECH AND SECURITY FORCES
The rise of the far-right in Portugal, particularly the Chega! party, is correlated with the increase in hate speech and extremist groups in the country. Chega!, led by André Ventura, has stood out for its anti-immigration, anti-LGBTQ+, and anti-Roma rhetoric, promoting ideas such as the "Great Replacement Theory," a conspiracy theory that immigrants will replace Portugal's native population (euronews) (Global Hate Project).
Additionally, there are indications that members of the Portuguese security forces have ties to Grupo 1143 and sympathize with Chega!. Grupo 1143, led by Mário Machado, is known for attracting members outside the traditional far-right circles, including current and former members of Chega!. On social media, it is common to see profiles that support both Chega! and Grupo 1143, promoting messages of hate and intolerance (Global Hate Project).
These developments are concerning as they reflect a growing radicalization that can threaten social cohesion and democracy in Portugal. The presence of security agents who sympathize with extremist groups raises serious concerns about the impartiality and integrity of the country's security forces (euronews) (Global Hate Project).
This chart illustrates the division among police officers regarding their support for the Chega party and participation in far-right groups.
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Police Officers in Chega and Extremist Groups: 15%
Police Officers in Chega but not in Extremist Groups: 5%
Other Police Officers: 80%
Chega!: 60%
Alternativa Democrática Nacional:
20% Ergue-Te/PNR:
10% Others: 10%
This chart illustrates how supporters of different political parties in Portugal contribute to the spread of hate speech on social media.
%
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HATE SPEECH TARGETS ALL OF US
In Portugal, the rise of far-right groups and political parties has been accompanied by an increase in hate speech and extremist activities on social media. The following key parties and organizations have been identified as significant contributors to this trend:
Chega!: Led by André Ventura, Chega! is the most prominent far-right party in Portugal. It is known for its anti-immigration, anti-LGBTQ+, and anti-Roma rhetoric. Chega! has been accused of "poisoning the national discourse" with hate speech, promoting the "Great Replacement Theory," and spreading racist and xenophobic ideas (Global Hate Project) (Notícias ao Minuto).
Alternativa Democrática Nacional (ADN): This party is also noted for its far-right ideologies, including nationalism and anti-immigration stances (Global Hate Project).
Ergue-Te/Partido Nacional Renovador (PNR): Formerly known as PNR, this party aligns closely with extreme-right ideologies, promoting nationalist and xenophobic rhetoric (Esquerda) (Observador).
Grupo 1143: Led by Mário Machado, Grupo 1143 attracts members from traditional far-right circles, including current and former members of Chega!. This group is active on social media, spreading messages of hate and intolerance (Global Hate Project).
Proud Boys Portugal: This group, with international ties to the American Proud Boys, is known for its white supremacist and anti-immigration views (Global Hate Project) (Esquerda).
Portugal Hammerskins: A neo-Nazi skinhead group that promotes extremist and racist ideologies (Global Hate Project) (Observador).
ITS URGENT. ITS NOW
THE POSITIVE IMPACT OF IMMIGRANTS AMIDST RISING XENOPHOBIA IN PORTUGAL
Racism and xenophobia are rising concerns in Portugal, driven by historical, social, and economic factors. Despite recent legislative and policy efforts, systemic discrimination persists, affecting various minority groups.
Factors Contributing to Racism and Xenophobia:
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Historical Context: Portugal's colonial past and involvement in the transatlantic slave trade have left a legacy of racial bias. This historical context has shaped modern attitudes, with structural racism ingrained in many societal aspects (OHCHR) (Portal).
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Economic Pressures: Economic crises and high unemployment rates often exacerbate xenophobic sentiments. During such periods, immigrants are unfairly blamed for economic hardships, leading to increased discrimination and scapegoating (MDPI)
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Political Rhetoric: The rise of far-right political parties like Chega! has normalized xenophobic and racist discourse. These parties often use inflammatory rhetoric against immigrants, Roma, and Afro-descendant communities, further polarizing public opinion and fostering an environment of intolerance (European Website on Integration) (Portal).
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Institutional Racism: Reports indicate that institutional discrimination is prevalent in sectors such as law enforcement, where racial profiling and police brutality disproportionately affect minority groups. Additionally, systemic barriers in education, healthcare, and housing contribute to ongoing inequality (OHCHR) (MDPI).
IMPACTS OF IMMIGRATION
Contrary to xenophobic narratives, immigrants bring significant benefits to Portugal:
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Positive Impact of Immigrants and the Rise of Xenophobia in Portugal (2015-2023)
The chart presented illustrates the relationship between the economic contributions of immigrants and the increase in reported cases of racial discrimination in Portugal from 2015 to 2023. Through these two data series, we can clearly visualize how immigrants contribute positively to the Portuguese economy while hatred and racism against them continue to grow.
Analysis of the Chart:
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Economic Contributions of Immigrants (Blue Bars): Over the years, immigrants' contributions to Social Security have increased significantly, from 500 million euros in 2015 to 1400 million euros in 2023. This continuous growth reflects the importance of immigrants in sustaining and growing the Portuguese economy. Immigrants not only fill gaps in the labor market but also bring new ideas and innovation, stimulating various economic sectors.
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Reported Cases of Racial Discrimination (Red Bars): Simultaneously, the number of reported cases of racial discrimination increased from 50 in 2015 to 260 in 2023. This alarming growth indicates a rise in xenophobia and racism, despite the clear positive contributions of immigrants to society and the economy.
Interpretation of the Data:
The data does not lie: immigrants are valuable to the Portuguese economy. They not only contribute large sums to Social Security but also help combat the aging population, increase the availability of labor, and promote a multicultural society.
However, the increase in reported cases of racial discrimination shows that hatred and racism are ingrained in some segments of society. These sentiments are unfounded and harmful, as they go against the clear evidence that immigrants are essential to Portugal's economic and social well-being.
Conclusion:
The chart highlights a worrying dichotomy: while immigrants play a crucial role in the Portuguese economy, significantly contributing to Social Security and demographic revitalization, they face increasing hatred and discrimination. It is imperative that Portuguese society recognizes and values the positive impact of immigrants, combating racism and xenophobia to build a more inclusive and prosperous future for all.
Xenophobia and racism have no place in a society that benefits so greatly from the diversity and hard work of immigrants. Effective policies and education are needed to promote integration and combat prejudice, ensuring that everyone can contribute to and thrive in Portugal.
WE INHERITED RACISM
ENDING IT STARTS WITH US!
BRUNO CANDÉ
MURDERED
DANIJOY
MURDERED
GURPREET SINGH
MURDERED
MURDERED
ALCINDO MONTEIRO
LUÍS GIOVANI
MURDERED
IT'S NOT ENOUGH TO BE NON-RACIST, WE MUST BE ANTI-RACIST. BUT WHY?
WHAT YOU CAN DO
Isabel Wilkerson explains it eloquently in her book Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents, the Winner of the Pulitzer Prize:
"
We in the developed world are like homeworkers who inherited a house on a place of land that is beautiful on the outside, but whose soil is unstable loam and rock, heaving and contracting over generations, cracks patched but the deeper ruptures waved away for decades, centuries even. Many people may rightly say, " I had nothing to do with how this all started. I have nothing to do with the sins of the past. My ancestors never attacked indigenous people, never owned slaves." And, yes. Not one of us was here when this house was built. Our immediate ancestors may have had nothing to do with this, but here we are, the current occupants of a property with stress cracks and bowed walls and fissures built into foundation. We are the heirs to whatever is right or wrong with it. We did not erect the uneven pillars or joists, but they are ours to deal with now.
And any further deterioration is, in fact, in our hands.
"
Report Racist Acts
If you witness or experience racism, do not remain silent. Report it to the relevant authorities and share your experiences to raise awareness.
Join Actions and Protests
Join protests and events aimed at promoting equality and justice.
Educate Yourself and Others
Participate in educational initiatives to learn the true history of colonialism and help spread accurate information about racism and inclusion.
Show You Care! DONATE
Collaborate with initiatives that fight against racism and promote solidarity among different communities. Donate
ESSENTIAL VIDEOS
EXPLORING ANTIRACISM EDUCATION
ITS URGENT. ITS NOW
RESOURCES FOR EDUCATION AND ACTION
European Network Against Racism (ENAR)
Website: https://www.enar-eu.org/
A pan-European network that provides reports, publications, and tools to combat racism across Europe.
Reports
Annual Report of the Commission for Equality and Against Racial Discrimination (CICDR)
Website: https://www.cicdr.pt/documents
Annual reports on racial discrimination and measures taken to combat it in Portugal.
European Network Against Racism (ENAR) Shadow Reports
Website: https://www.enar-eu.org/Shadow-Reports-on-racism-in-Europe
Parallel reports analyzing the state of racism in Europe.
Brazilian Forum for Public Safety Reports
Website: https://forumseguranca.org.br/publicacoes/
Reports and studies on racial violence and discrimination in Brazil.
Tools and Action
Racial Equality Resource Guide by the Portuguese Platform for Women’s Rights
Website: https://plataformamulheres.org.pt/
Educational resources and tools to promote racial equality in Portugal.
United for Intercultural Action
Website: https://unitedfia.org/
A European network of NGOs combating racism, with resources, campaigns, and tools.
Observatório de Favelas - Brazil
Website: https://observatoriodefavelas.org.br/
Provides educational materials and advocacy tools to combat racism in Brazil.
Online Courses and Webinars
Webinars by the European Network Against Racism (ENAR)
Website: https://www.enar-eu.org
Regular webinars on topics related to racism and discrimination in Europe.
AfroeducAÇÃO - Brazil
Website: http://afroeducacao.com.br/
Offers online courses and webinars on racial education and empowerment in Brazil.
" As with the twentieth, the problem of the twenty-first century is freedmom; and racialized lines continue powerfully, although non-exclusively, to define freedom's contours and limits."
- Ruth Wilson Gilmorse, "Race and Globalization"
What did they say?
Spring up, O well and raise your water
to produce for everyone to drink" - ZOHAR
