Intersectionality by Other Means?: New Equality Policies in Portugal

A variety of typologies have been developed to conceptualize the diversity of theories and policies dealing with intersectionality. This article examines the relevant literature, especially the work of Hancock (2007, Perspectives on Politics, 5, 63-79), which is applied to a case study of Portugal. In Hancock's typology, Portugal appears to be evolving toward a multiple approach, which focuses on addressing certain groups at the intersections. However, unlike other European Union countries, this shift has been undertaken by means of a distinctive and innovative institutional model based on fostering the coordination of the existing equality bodies. Moreover, Portugal features a long tradition of engaging voices from civil society in the making of equality policies. This opens up avenues for developing a more effective engagement with intersectional issues. This article explores Portuguese particularities and reflects on their implications for the practice and theory of intersectionality.