António Filipe, in a statement to journalists before a meeting with the Portuguese Association for Victim Support (APAV) in Lisbon, emphasized that the state must remember its duty to protect crime victims.
“There is a significant demand in this area, which requires resources, will, and ability. The state must not fail these individuals,” he asserted, highlighting existing substantial deficiencies.
The presidential candidate, supported by the PCP, used the example of domestic violence victims to illustrate the need for state resources that ensure these victims can relocate or receive appropriate protection after filing a complaint.
“The state must ensure this. It demands resources and capacity, and I believe political leaders should be concerned about this,” he maintained.
António Filipe noted that he requested a meeting with APAV because he considers this topic of great importance in Portuguese society, stressing that “behind every crime, there are real victims whom the state must support.”
“Supporting them at all levels, whether psychologically, when justified, or materially, and in many cases, this support is essential,” he mentioned, pointing out that, as a deputy, he met with APAV and realized the association’s struggle to have the means to aid those in need.
Regarding today’s meeting with APAV, António Filipe stated that the primary goal is to gather information about the challenges the association faces in its work and what it requires from the state to “function better and fulfill its duties more effectively.”
When asked if he intended to present any proposals to APAV, António Filipe recalled that a President of the Republic does not have direct competency to present proposals but “should closely monitor, as he will be called upon to evaluate proposals related to this matter.”
“He can also actively voice concerns about issues requiring resolution. Therefore, the goal here is primarily to gather information to have a more informed intervention concerning the problems and needs, particularly the support required for crime victims,” he stated.
