Safe again defends "words in the middle" for tolerance and coexistence between religions

On a recent occasion, President António José Seguro reiterated his support for the concept of “palavras do meio” — translated as “middle words” or “moderate speech” — emphasizing its importance in fostering tolerance and peaceful coexistence among different religions. The event took place in the Sala das Bicas within the Palace of Belém, where Seguro addressed representatives from various religious communities. This gathering was part of a ceremony marking a significant date related to religious freedom in Portugal.

During the event, Seguro listened to José Vera Jardim, president of the Commission for Religious Freedom, who highlighted certain attempts, albeit occasional, to restrict the full exercise of religious liberty in the country. These remarks set the stage for Seguro’s address, which focused on the need for balanced discourse that bridges divides between faith communities.

In his speech, Seguro revisited the idea of “palavras do meio,” a phrase he had previously used during a June 10th event. He emphasized how these middle words serve as a vital link between diverse religious groups, promoting a culture rooted in tolerance, mutual respect, and democratic coexistence. According to Seguro, such dialogue is essential in maintaining social harmony amidst increasing diversity.

The President also acknowledged the significance of Portugal's Law on Religious Freedom, now in effect for 25 years. He described this legislation as a cornerstone of the democratic rule of law in the country, reinforcing fundamental principles outlined in the Constitution. These include the universality of rights, equality, freedom of conscience and religion, and the non-confessional nature of the state.

Seguro expressed pride in Portugal’s ability to foster a robust model of coexistence among over 30 major religious convictions and more than 600 distinct confessions established within the nation. He viewed this as a reflection of Portuguese identity and culture, highlighting a society that values freedom, plurality, and respect for individual consciousness while allowing religious communities autonomy in their organization and worship practices.

He further noted that Portugal is becoming increasingly diverse, with citizens from around the world contributing to its cultural fabric. However, he warned against the emergence of barriers—whether physical or silent—that could lead to dehumanization. In this context, Seguro underscored the State’s responsibility not only to ensure a legal framework supporting the full exercise of religious freedom but also to create conditions conducive to interfaith dialogue.

At the conclusion of his speech, Seguro praised José Vera Jardim for his pivotal role in advancing the cause of religious freedom. He recognized Jardim’s contributions both as a political advocate behind the 2001 Law on Religious Freedom and as the head of the Commission for Religious Freedom since 2016. Seguro commended Jardim’s dedication to defending human rights and human dignity.

The ceremony brought together members of the Commission for Religious Freedom, the Interfaith Dialogue Working Group under the Agency for Integration, Migration, and Asylum (AIMA), and representatives from religious communities based in Portugal. This assembly reflected the collaborative effort aimed at nurturing understanding and cooperation across different faith traditions.

Seguro reaffirmed the public commitment of Portuguese society to the values of tolerance and respect for diversity. He called for open and constructive dialogue among various religious traditions, beliefs, and worldviews. Emphasizing the importance of religious freedom as one of the pillars of shared societal foundations, he urged everyone to take personal responsibility for preserving this fundamental right.