The Assembly of the Republic has elected and appointed Fernando Fontes, a researcher at the Centre for Social Studies, to serve on the National Mechanism for Monitoring the Implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (Me-CDPD) for the term from 2026 to 2031.

The Me-CDPD comprises experts in the fields of human rights, disability and inclusion, elected and appointed by various bodies. The Assembly of the Republic is responsible for appointing two of these members.

The swearing-in ceremony for the new members of the Me-CDPD is scheduled for 2 July 2026, at 12.00, at the Assembly of the Republic.

About the Me-CDPD

The Me-CDPD - National Mechanism for Monitoring the Implementation of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities - is the independent body established by Law No. 71/2019 of 2 September, responsible for monitoring, promoting and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities in Portugal.

Its main function is to ensure that the commitments made by the Portuguese State upon ratifying the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD) are translated into laws, public policies and practices that are effectively more inclusive.
Its remit includes: assessing policies and practices relating to the rights of people with disabilities; issuing mandatory but non-binding opinions on draft legislation affecting this area; proposing recommendations and legislative amendments where necessary; and engaging in dialogue with public and private bodies and civil society.

_02.07.2026