Portugal is facing growing criticism after its parliament advanced three sweeping bills that could significantly roll back transgender rights. On March 20, lawmakers approved the proposals in their first reading, backed by the center-right governing coalition and far-right representatives. The measures would ban gender-affirming care for trans youth, require adults to obtain medical approval before changing their name or sex marker on official documents, and restrict discussion of what is described as gender ideology in schools for those under 18.
If enacted, the legislation would reverse key parts of Portugal’s 2018 gender identity protections, reintroducing medical requirements and removing broad anti-discrimination safeguards. LGBTQ+ organizations, including ILGA-Europe and Transgender Europe, have called the proposals a serious attack on the rights, dignity, and safety of trans people. Protests have already taken place outside Assembleia da República in Lisbon, where activists warned of a wider erosion of civil rights. The bills now move to committee review and a final vote, signaling a significant political shift in the country.
