Andreia Galvão, a member of Portugal's Left Bloc, has stated that demanding moderation from protesters is equivalent to failing to comprehend their state of revolt. Speaking on the morning program 'Comissão de Inquérito', Galvão addressed the ongoing housing crisis and the recent police interventions in Lisbon. She argued that when political power only demands containment from individuals who are already homeless or have nothing to lose, it demonstrates a fundamental misunderstanding of their situation.
Galvão criticized the reaction of authorities, including President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, to the recent demonstrations. She expressed frustration with generic calls for 'good sense' and 'dialogue,' noting that such responses normalize police violence by treating aggressive interventions as routine. According to Galvão, the lack of surprise or strong reaction from leadership regarding the actions of the PSP (Public Security Police) contributes to a culture where force is accepted despite the severity of the housing crisis.
The discussion also touched upon the role of political parties in social movements. While acknowledging the necessity of party support for security and political reach, Galvão emphasized that movements like 'Vida Justa' must maintain their autonomy. She rejected the notion that party involvement equates to manipulation, arguing instead that citizen participation in power structures should be normalized as part of civic life. However, she noted a crisis of representation, particularly among younger generations who feel existing parties no longer reflect their interests.
Regarding the specific legal context of the protests, Galvão highlighted the debate surrounding the eviction of activist Renata Câmara and the application of housing laws. She maintained that the protests are not illegal camps but legitimate exercises of the right to demonstrate. While acknowledging that repealing the current rental law is a positive step, she insisted it is insufficient to address the structural transformations needed. Galvão suggested that the current mobilization represents a unique moment in Portuguese democracy where people are creating new forms of community and collective life outside traditional party structures.
Finally, addressing the future of the Left Bloc, Galvão admitted the party faces a difficult moment with only one elected deputy compared to its historical peak of 19. She argued that the old ways of doing politics have ended and that the left must reinvent itself without falling into permanent moderation or shifting rightward. She believes there is space for transformation through greater organization and rooted structures, mirroring the collective routines emerging within the protest camps themselves.
Sources: Observador.