Overview:

• Procedures for existential recognition and legal registration are differentiated in Portugal with sufficient provisions put in place for the securement of both; provisions are given for registration at multiple levels of activity and operation which demonstrates dynamic character.

• Allowing religious entities to decide from a series of options their legal structure in the country is also dynamic in character.

• There exists a lawful body of representatives for religion and belief yet this body is not inclusive of all groups and communities, especially not denominational communities; however, the establishment of such a body does show dynamic character.

• Informational requirements in the registration process are not appropriate and provisions for reapplication in cases of rejection are supportive.

• A relatively small degree of vertical recognition is in effect with regards to the “religion settled in the country” category, access to which is limited by longevity quotas.

• Bilateral cooperation agreements have been established between the government and Jewish, Islamic and Catholic bodies; the degree of accessibility to these agreements for other groups remains unclear.

Positive elements:

• Establishment of the CLR, despite its minor issues, is positive especially due to its ability to present human rights abuse cases to government.

• Freedom of religion or belief is broadly upheld by the government.

• Portugal is one of the closest countries to dynamic classification.

Recommendations:

• Reorganise the CLR as a recognition agency independent of government control yet retaining the authority of government in matters of religious freedom and religious recognition.

• Revoke the existence of vertical recognition and longevity quotas.