The Catholic Church in Portugal has announced the payment of 1,6 million euros in compensation to 57 victims of sexual abuse committed by members of the clergy.
This decision comes amid increased awareness following the publication in 2023 of a damning report on the extent of violence within the religious institution.
An independent commission, funded by the Church, had revealed that at least 4,815 vulnerable children and adults had been victims of sexual abuse in Portugal over a period of approximately 70 years.
The cases mainly involve priests and span several decades, highlighting systemic failures in the handling of these crimes.
The announced compensation aims to recognize the suffering of the victims and to mark a step in the reparation process.
However, some associations believe that these amounts remain insufficient in view of the scale of the abuses revealed.
The Catholic Church, like in other countries, is facing increasing pressure to assume its responsibilities and strengthen its prevention mechanisms.
This announcement is part of a series of similar initiatives in Europe, aimed at responding to the sexual abuse scandals within the institution.
She underlines the importance of official recognition and concrete support for the victims, after decades of silence.
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