Lisbon protesters demand voice in mental health policy

Hundreds of protesters marched in Lisbon to the Assembleia da República to demand greater influence in mental health policy decisions. Organized by the National Federation of Mental Illness Rehabilitation Entities (FNERDM) under the manifesto ‘For the future of community support, rehabilitation and inclusion in mental health’, the ‘Outdoor for Mental Health 2026’ protest began at Jardim da Estrela.

Participants wore green to symbolize hope and advocated for improved access to housing, education, and employment. Key slogans included ‘Nothing about us, without us’ and ‘Belonging is living in the community, in a house’. Carlos Alves, president of the FNERDM, stated that the protest was a call for the Portuguese State to recognize these citizens. The initiative coincided with World Mental Health Day, emphasizing the need for lived experiences to shape public policy.