Portugal

The current Constitution of Portugal is in force since 1976, two years after the "Carnation Revolution" that ended the dictatorship existing for more than thirty years. It has been amended several times in 1982, 1989, 1992, 1997, 2001, 2004 and finally in 2005.

The Portuguese Constitution recognizes intellectual property rights. Article 42 guarantees the freedom of intellectual, artistic and scientific creation. It states that: "This freedom shall comprise the right to invent, produce and publicise scientific, literary and artistic works and shall include the protection of copyright by law". Private property is guaranteed by Article 62.

The Constitution also stimulates and supports private and collective creation initiatives and innovation (Articles 73 and 78). Article 73, paragraph 4 states that: "The state shall stimulate and support scientific research and creation and technological innovation..." in order to reinforce competitivity. These articles provide for the protection of cultural heritage of the country, which should be safeguarded and enhanced (Article 78, paragraph 2c)