Portugal and the European Commission align priorities for justice, democracy, and the rule of law

The European Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection Michael McGrath was on official visit to Portugal on 22 and 23 April and met with the Minister of State and Foreign Affairs Paulo Rangel and the Minister of Justice Rita Alarcão Júdice.

On 22 April, the meeting with the Minister of State and Foreign Affairs allowed a discussion on EU enlargement, the Rule of Law, and the current international agenda. The Commissioner thanked Portugal for its support for the European Commission's initiative "European Democracy Shield".

On 23 April, the meeting with the Minister of Justice focused on justice efficiency, modernising justice infrastructure, and the role of commercial la won economic competitiveness and trust by companies in the Portuguese justice system.

"Portugal and Europe share the same commitment: swifter justice that is more digital and closer to citizens and companies; because a strong democracy is also built on efficient justice institutions accessible to all", Rita Alarcão Júdice claimed.

Portugal noted the ongoing work to improve court management, strengthening the legal system's resources and making administrative and tax law swifter. The digital transformation of justice and the requalification of justice facilities and spaces were identified as a priority to ensure a more efficient service that is closer to people and companies.

This visit reinforces Portugal's alignment with the European priorities for justice and democracy in a context of cooperation between Member States and the EU institutions to boost citizens' and companies' trust in justice and the rule of law.