Signal Portugal signs law strengthening protection for stateless persons

Summary

Portugal's president signed a new law formally establishing a statelessness determination procedure. The UN refugee agency UNHCR welcomed the law as strengthening protection for stateless persons. Under the law, people recognized as stateless are guaranteed the right to reside legally in the country. They also gain access to public services including work, education and healthcare. The law further opens a pathway for stateless persons to eventually acquire Portuguese citizenship.