Portugal allocates record budget to Commission for Citizenship and Gender Equality

The Portuguese government has announced a record budget of 22.93 million euros for the Commission for Citizenship and Gender Equality (CIG) for 2027. This represents an increase of approximately 235 percent compared to the 6.84 million euros managed in 2026.

The funding increase stems from a structural change in how support for victims of domestic violence and human trafficking is financed. For the first time, permanent funding for the National Support Network for Victims of Domestic Violence and the Support and Protection Network for Victims of Human Trafficking will be secured directly through tax revenue, replacing previous reliance on European funds. Approximately 11 million euros are earmarked for direct contracting with organizations providing care, shelter, and protection services.

Additionally, one million euros of the budget will be dedicated to new competencies and a strategy for Roma communities. This includes taking over responsibilities from the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (AIMA) regarding the fight against discrimination, racism, and xenophobia. The funds will support a new work team, the development of a strategic framework for Roma integration, and the National Plan to Combat Racism.