Institute for Political Studies honours Ernâni Rodrigues Lopes

The Institute for Political Studies, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, honoured Ernâni Rodrigues Lopes, a prominent figure in Portuguese history and a key player in shaping economic policy in the period following Portugal's accession to the European Economic Community.

The ceremony, which brought together more than 500 participants in the Cardeal Medeiros Auditorium, was attended by some of the most prominent figures in national public life, including the President of the Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, the Grand Chancellor of the Universidade Católica Portuguesa, D. Rui Valério, and the Chief of Staff of the Navy, Vice-Admiral Soares Ribeiro, as well as representatives from the academic, political and economic spheres.

The session was chaired by the President of the Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Isabel Capeloa Gil, and included a welcome address by the Director of the Institute for Political Studies (IEP), Mónica Dias.

During the tribute, a book dedicated to Ernâni Lopes was presented by José Pena do Amaral, representing the coordinating group, followed by José Manuel Durão Barroso, director of the IEP's Centre for European Studies.

A round table moderated by Sónia Ribeiro featured contributions from D. Rui Valério, Vice-Admiral Soares Ribeiro and Nuno Valério, who reflected on the intellectual, academic and civic legacy of Ernâni Lopes.

One of the most significant moments was the awarding, by the Order of Economists, of the title of Emeritus Economist, awarded posthumously and presented to the family of the honouree, with praise from António Mendonça, President of the Order.

The ceremony ended with a speech by the President of the Republic, who emphasised Ernâni Lopes' decisive role in building a modern and European Portugal.

This tribute not only highlighted Ernâni Lopes' exceptional career, but also reaffirmed the Institute of Political Studies' commitment to academic excellence and to deepening public debate in Portugal.