UFRJ revokes Salazar honorary degree and honors Celso Amorim

The Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) has approved the revocation of an honorary doctorate previously awarded to António de Oliveira Salazar. The distinction, granted in August 1941 when the institution was known as the University of Brazil, was rescinded by the University Council.

The university stated that maintaining the honor is no longer compatible with its current democratic, academic, and constitutional principles. The decision cites Salazar’s leadership of the Estado Novo regime, characterized by political power concentration, censorship, repression, and colonialist policies in Africa.

In a separate academic development, UFRJ conferred the title of Doctor Honoris Causa upon diplomat and ambassador Celso Amorim. The ceremony recognized Amorim’s contributions to Brazilian foreign policy and culture. During his acceptance speech, Amorim reflected on his historical connection to the institution, noting how the 1964 military coup had previously disrupted his academic pursuits at the university.