Ana Gomes (Portugal)

Ana Gomes is a former Member of the European Parliament representing Portugal and an active advocate for human rights activists. Since 2004, she has used her position to spotlight issues such as the build-up of a united Europe and the promotion of human rights, democracy, and the rule of law in the EU and in the world.

Previously, Gomes served as a career diplomat in the Portuguese Foreign Service. She served in Portugal’s missions at the United Nations in New York and Geneva, as well as in embassies in Japan and United Kingdom. From 1999 until 2003, she was Head of the Portuguese Interests Section and Ambassador in Indonesia. During her tenure, she played a key role in supporting the independence of East Timor and in the reestablishment of diplomatic relations between Portugal and Indonesia.    

Gomes is the recipient of numerous human rights awards, including the Ruth Pearce Award for Human Rights by Human Rights NGOs, Human Rights Award of the Assembly of the Republic (Portuguese parliament), and The Parliament Magazine’s 2008 Activist of the Year.

Watch Ana’s story about using her role as a Member of European Parliament to call out human rights abuses and curb corruption.