During the last two years, the pandemic has dominated the public attention and debate around the world, centering on socio-economic aspects and having camouflaged other social, cultural and even environmental issues. This study sought to analyze ethno-racial discrimination processes, identifying significant events in Portugal during the period of the current global crisis. We utilized document analysis of national and international reports produced in the last five years, complementing with secondary statistical data and the analysis of online news and users’ comments published in national media during the last two years. The results show that, although there has been a development in Portuguese legislation and in anti-discrimination measures, there has been an increase in racist and xenophobic phenomena in Portugal. Citizens’ perceptions, indicators and reports from official bodies show evidence of discriminatory behavior. Additionally, within this framework, we see a greater political presence of extreme right-wing movements, as well as an increase in hate speech in online news comments. Thus, although there is an awareness of the seriousness of these phenomena, there is an urgent need for actions against racial and ethnic intolerance and greater effective measures for ideological crimes.

Introduction. Over the past decade, numerous global events have unfolded, spanning from migratory and humanitarian crises to health, political, and socio-economic challenges, culminating in a worsening of armed conflicts worldwide. Portugal has been marked by pronounced migratory inflows, mainly from communities in Portuguese-speaking countries, but also other regions. Yet, the growing phenomenon of political polarization, both globally and locally, has generated perceptions that challenge traditionally safeguarded rights. This study aims to analyze Portuguese public policies on access to healthcare, understanding how they have been operationalized to guarantee the migrant population's right to health. Methods. Against this backdrop, this article examines public policies related to healthcare access in Portugal through an analysis of Portuguese legislation, data from international organizations, and interviews with professionals from social organizations that provide support to migrants. Results. Concerning healthcare access in Portugal, the National Health Service (SNS) is founded on the Portuguese Constitution that guarantees the rights to healthcare for all. Notwithstanding the coexistence of private healthcare options, the SNS is universal, tends to be free of charge, and does not discriminate against citizens based on their socio-economic situation. Portuguese legislation ensures that foreign citizens are allowed access to healthcare under the same conditions as nationals, according to certain criteria. Conversely, even foreign citizens lacking proper documentation retain access to healthcare services within the SNS, regarding urgent situations, public health contexts, and other specified circumstances. However, testimonies from NGOs’ professionals report persistent barriers and limitations in the operationalization of healthcare legislation and reflect issues that hinder access to healthcare services. Discussion and conclusions. The findings highlight that Portugal’s public health policies are widely recognized, but a landscape of socio-political polarization could change this scenario. Bureaucratic and operational barriers persist, hindering access to healthcare for certain migrant populations, especially the most vulnerable. This study underscores the need for more equitable and inclusive policy strategies, aligned with the National Health Plan, and presents key aspects requiring Social Work attention to promote collective health.

This chapter aims to analyze the hate speech discourse in the Portuguese context, be it spread or fed through news media platforms and by their users in Portugal. Considering the need to share evidence and produce theoretical and empirical knowledge about this field of research, this study aims to contribute to this reflection and provide information to the international audience. By analyzing the Portuguese legal framework, statistical data and narratives about hate speech against immigrants and other minority groups in digital media (e.g. online news, Facebook) and traditional media (e.g. television, radio), the reader will become better acquainted with the policies associated with hate speech present through digital media and its detection.