Principle of Equality
Fundamental constitutional guarantee that all citizens possess the same social dignity and are equal before the law, prohibiting discrimination on various grounds.
Definition
As enshrined in Article 13 of the Constitution of the Portuguese Republic, the Principle of Equality dictates that all citizens have the same social dignity and are equal before the law. It explicitly prohibits any form of privilege, favoritism, prejudice, deprivation of rights, or exemption from duties based on ancestry, sex, race, language, territory of origin, religion, political or ideological beliefs, education, economic situation, social circumstances, or sexual orientation. This principle forms the bedrock for all anti-discrimination and equal pay legislation in Portugal, ensuring that legal and social treatment is impartial and just.