Portuguese Bar Association President warns of regression in women's rights

João Massano, the President of the Portuguese Bar Association (Ordem dos Advogados), has warned of concerning signs regarding the regression of women's rights. Speaking at a conference in Lisbon focused on gender equality and the Istanbul Convention, Massano highlighted the impact of current societal conservatism.

He specifically cited the rise of the 'manosphere'—misogynistic behaviors shared via social media—as a phenomenon that threatens previously considered irreversible progress in gender equality. Massano emphasized that the current challenge is not merely advancing equality, but actively preventing the rollback of existing rights.

Massano also noted the importance of educating younger generations about unacceptable behaviors, such as controlling a partner's mobile phone or restricting freedom of dress, stating that society must have the courage to confront these growing movements.