As far-right populism rises across Europe, the freedoms of expression and assembly for LGBTQIA+ communities are increasingly under threat, leading to the cancellation of public events and a rollback of rights.

In Portugal, the national conservative party, Chega, is contributing to a less tolerant social climate with proposals against same-sex marriage and hostile rhetoric towards transgender rights.

Despite being recognized as one of the safest countries for LGBTQIA+ individuals, Portugal faces the risk of backtracking on fundamental rights due to these political developments.

Recent social media intimidation by the far-right group Habeas Corpus aims to disrupt the upcoming March for LGBTQIA+ Pride in Castelo Branco, scheduled for mid-September.

Habeas Corpus has targeted LGBTQIA+ rights advocates with hate campaigns, labeling them as 'highly funded LGBTQIA+ terrorists,' further escalating tensions.

Across Europe, LGBTQIA+ communities are experiencing a surge in hate speech and violence, often exploited by far-right populist leaders for political gain.

Countries like Hungary and Poland have enacted laws against 'homosexual propaganda' and 'gender ideology,' while Russia has labeled the international LGBTQIA+ movement as an 'extremist organization.'

Combating discrimination is framed as a public health issue and a matter of human dignity, underscoring the need to reinvigorate democracy.

The manifesto for the Castelo Branco march emphasizes mental health, ableism, and the autonomy of LGBTQIA+ individuals, advocating for the self-determination of all peoples.

In the interior regions of Portugal, there is a pressing need for recognition of gender equality and LGBTQIA+ rights, as these areas struggle with resource shortages and visibility.

In addition, nations such as Slovakia, Croatia, France, and the UK are restricting access to specific healthcare services for transgender individuals.

The article calls for societal solidarity with the Castelo Branco march, highlighting the importance of resisting narrow conservatism and upholding human rights.