"On this day, it is up to each and every one of the women of our country to recognise their role in leading this struggle in favour of so much that still remains to be conquered", said Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, in a message published on the official website of the Presidency of Republic.

At the beginning of this text, the head of state says that this International Women's Day is celebrated "in a year still marked by the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic" and "now unfortunately tainted by the invasion of Ukraine" by Russia.

Tireless dedication

Afterwards, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa "highlights the tireless dedication of women in Portuguese society — in the public and private spheres — as personalities, workers, caregivers, our grandmothers, mothers, aunts, sisters, cousins, friends, companions, to whom we owe love, education, guidance, example of life and strength in our lives and, often, victims themselves, in their homes and jobs, of violence, harassment and discrimination".

"The steps taken in our democracy to mitigate discrimination against women and safeguard equality in the law, in the Constitution, and in the family, in the revision of the Civil Code, in parity in employment, in wages, in management positions, in politics, in family and domestic responsibilities, in protecting against violence", according to the President of the Republic, "were decisive, but they are still insufficient".

Struggle

Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa highlights "the struggle for women's rights and their recognition", which "historically inspired other struggles against unacceptable injustices".

"To all women, particularly those whose lives are guided by silent discouragement and fear, the President of the Republic today extends his solidary admiration, his sincere gratitude and a word of hope and courage", he adds.

At the beginning of his second and final term as President of the Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa increased the number of women in his new team to more than 60%.

In October of last year, he launched a program called "Women of Courage", which brought together female personalities from various fields, ages and backgrounds in conversation with high school students.