Pedro Passos Coelho’s manifesto against gender ideology and culture of death sparks controversy

In 207 pages, 22 names from different fields (general conservative positions), including economist João César das Neves, priest Gonçalo Portocarrero de Almada, former CDS president José Ribeiro y Castro and lawyer Paulo Otero, present their views. against what they see as the “destruction of the traditional family” and the “imposition of gender ideology.” They condemn euthanasia, abortion, marriage and adoption by same-sex couples, legislation that “makes divorce easier” and “digital ‘influencers’ who contribute to people’s confusion.”

The introduction, signed by Bagao Felix, Paulo Otero, Pedro Afonso and Victor Gil, explains that the book appears in the context of the mission of Movimento Ação Ética. The authors claim to be fighting for good and say that “evil has taken over society.” They present the family as the only “natural, universal and timeless” human society and point the finger at public schools, which “threaten to become places of indoctrination” where parents are relegated to the background. “This work has everything you need to compile a seed book,” they conclude.

Joao Cesar das Neves is one of the main targets. The economist finds it strange to believe that “for centuries women have been consistently oppressed and despised.”

On the left, reactions and criticism towards Passos Coelho, the “sponsor” of the book, were not long in coming. “Insignificant. Pure misogyny,” says former education minister João Costa. “Jalupas is now led by Pedro Passos Coelho,” says Isabel Moreira, a PS deputy. “The far right is inventing culture wars to cause damage,” says blocker Katarina Martins. Pedro Nuno Santos, leader of the Socialist Party, says Passos Coelho’s vision for society and family is “scary.”