Cascais

We know that human rights can only be realized through their practical and concrete application, with visible results in a more dignified society for all. Nevertheless, alongside this realization that cannot wait, it is also increasingly essential to invest in reflection, in a theoretical dimension, so that there is knowledge, acceptance and integration of concepts and premises that make real the emancipatory potential within social regulation that a human rights approach provides. 

In the context of public administration, Article 266 of the Portuguese Constitution advocates for the 'pursuit of the public interest, with respect for the legally protected rights and interests of citizens'. Thus, in Portugal, the administration at local and national level has an important mission in supporting the creation of policies with a human rights approach. For us, as a local authority, involvement with human rights issues is a key issue in our responsibilities. Regional and local governments have a crucial role to play in promoting human rights-based policies and protecting the rights of their citizens. The proximity that local governments have with citizens puts them in a privileged position, not only to understand their needs, and to assert themselves whenever national governments find themselves in a moment of crisis or political impasse, but also to generate an impact on the work carried out on the ground. Community participation is key to inform and design a more conscious decision-making process, enabling meaningful involvement in the consultation and diagnosis processes, recognising the validity of the knowledge of those in the community. This sharing of resources with the community contributes more precisely to creating responses to concrete needs ensuring that local actions are fair, inclusive, and sustainable.