On 1 October 2025, the Centre for Social Studies (CES) of the University of Coimbra, through its Observatory Masculinidades.pt, welcomed a visit from Rio de Janeiro Secretary of State for Women, Heloísa Aguiar.

The meeting aimed to strengthen international cooperation and promote the sharing of experiences and institutional practises in strategic areas, such as masculinity studies, the promotion of gender equality, violence prevention and mental health.

The agenda included a meeting between teams from the Rio de Janeiro Secretary of State for Women, Observatory Masculinidades.pt, and the Director of CES, as well as a visit to the APAV – Portuguese Association for Victim Support in Coimbra. Supported by data and information on lines of action, the teams established a dialogue on support practises and challenges faced in the field.

This meeting marked a significant step toward establishing a network of cooperation and mutual support between Portugal and Brazil. In this regard, an institutional partnership is being formalised, which will enable the development of joint, sustainable projects with social impact, with national and international reach.