Class Fundamental Rights

This curricular unit aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the role of fundamental rights as a structuring element of contemporary constitutionalism and a legitimising foundation of the Democratic Rule of Law. Starting from an analysis of the historical evolution of fundamental rights, it seeks to develop a systematic study of the Portuguese constitutional model, addressing the dogmatic, institutional, and jurisprudential dimensions of fundamental rights protection. In parallel, it will foster critical reflection on the influence of International Human Rights Law on the domestic legal order and on the new challenges posed by contemporary technological, digital, and social transformations. The curricular unit is of particular relevance to students' legal education, contributing to the consolidation of theoretical and practical competences essential to the interpretation and application of constitutional norms.

Not applicable

Part I - Theoretical Foundations and Evolution of Fundamental Rights Part II - The Portuguese System of Fundamental Rights Part III - Fundamental Rights and Contemporary Challenges

The teaching of the curricular unit will combine expository methodologies with participatory methodologies oriented towards the practical application of the knowledge acquired. Classes will include: Theoretical presentation of the syllabus content; Analysis and discussion of constitutional case law; Resolution of practical cases; Guided debates on contemporary topics; Research assignments and oral presentations; Use of digital resources and interactive platforms; Critical discussion of doctrinal texts. Active student participation will be encouraged throughout the semester, fostering scientific autonomy, argumentative skills, and legal reasoning.

Alexandrino, José Alberto de Melo, Direitos Fundamentais: Introdução Geral, Principia, 2015. Miranda, Jorge, Direitos Fundamentais, Almedina, 2020. Pereira da Silva, Jorge, Direitos Fundamentais - Teoria Geral, Universidade Católica Editora, 2018. Reis Novais, Jorge, Direitos Sociais - Teoria Jurídica dos Direitos Sociais, AAFDL, 2021. Sarlet, Ingo Wolfgang, A Eficácia dos Direitos Fundamentais, 15.ª ed., JusPodivm, 2026. Simões, Vânia, Lições de Direitos Humanos e Proteção Internacional dos Direitos Humanos, Almedina, 2024. Vieira de Andrade, José Carlos, Os Direitos Fundamentais na Constituição Portuguesa de 1976, Almedina, 2019.