Teresa Rosmaninho Prize winner - Human Rights, Women's Rights
In order to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, the work "Reflexões Críticas Sobre do Enquadramento Jurídico-Penal da Prostituição no Ordenamento Jurídico Português", by the alumna of the Faculty of Law - Oporto School, Tatiana Botelho, was awarded by the Portuguese Association of Women Jurists (APMJ).
For the former teacher, this recognition is "proof of recognition of my effort and merit" and she admits that it is an honour to realise that her thesis has contributed to the investigation of women's human rights: "I have managed to deepen and develop concepts and methods that allow the Law to be shaped in such a way that it can be the appropriate tool to achieve its ultimate goal - justice".
Indeed, the criminal area has always aroused Tatiana's interest. Thus, a master's degree in criminal law was an obvious choice: "Because of my special interest in this area, I have always kept an eye on the most controversial issues in criminal law and it was precisely in research that I was confronted with prostitution and the various and diverse theories, positions and models of prostitution that exist".
After the extensive exploration of issues related to prostitution and the Portuguese criminal legislation in this area, Tatiana reached some conclusions: "The evolution of policies and laws related to prostitution in Portugal has culminated in the adoption of a model that tends to be abolitionist where the exercise of prostitution does not constitute a crime but, nevertheless, is not regulated like any other profession/activity".
Recalling her academic experience at the School of Law, Tatiana highlights some factors that have contributed to a unique experience:" The teaching staff of excellence, the development of communication skills, forensic practice, interdisciplinarity and specialisation provided by this institution". Also of note is the proximity with the teachers "available and tireless in their task of transmitting knowledge".
The thesis orientation work was conducted by the teacher Sandra Tavares who guided the writing and defence of Tatiana's dissertation with great satisfaction: "To see this work now being at the genesis of the Teresa Rosmaninho Award is something of which I am very proud. I express my hope that the deepening of the scientific knowledge of this theme, essential to the Human Rights of Women, will continue in the years to come".