The Catholic Church in Portugal has announced a €1.6 million compensation package for 57 victims of sexual abuse by clergy, marking a significant step in addressing decades of misconduct.

The decision follows findings from a 2023 independent inquiry which revealed that at least 4,815 children and vulnerable individuals were abused over a 70-year period, largely by priests. In response, the Portuguese Bishops’ Conference acknowledged the gravity of the abuses and reiterated its apology, stating that financial compensation cannot undo the harm suffered by victims.

Out of 95 applications received, 67 were considered eligible, with 57 claims already approved for payment. Individual compensation amounts will range between €9,000 and €45,000, while nine additional cases are still under review.

Church authorities described the initiative as part of a broader effort to confront past abuses and provide some form of justice to those affected, even as they admitted that monetary compensation cannot fully address the long-term impact on victims’ lives.