Applications are now open for the third edition of Health Parliament Portugal (HPP), which returns in 2026 aiming to foster reflection and develop recommendations on the future of health policies in Portugal. The initiative, the only one in the country fully structured as a “parliament” dedicated to health, is promoted by NOVA University Lisbon, Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine, Expresso and Microsoft.
Over a six-month period, 60 participants will be organized into six parliamentary committees, where they will debate key strategic topics in the health sector. The goal is to produce policy recommendations to be presented to Parliament and decision-makers. The topics include access and integration of care, data and artificial intelligence in health, innovation and value in healthcare, oncology, prevention and diagnosis, and mental health.
The programme is open to individuals aged between 21 and 40, residing in mainland Portugal, with at least a bachelor’s degree and availability to attend monthly in-person meetings while contributing to group work mainly carried out in a virtual format. Selection will value interest in health policy, analytical skills, professional experience, involvement in innovation or think-tank activities, as well as leadership, media or associative experience.
Participants will benefit from training in media, policy-making and parliamentary practices, opportunities for networking with experts and stakeholders, and the publication of policy papers, alongside the possibility of presenting recommendations to policymakers. A certificate of completion will be awarded by NOVA University Lisbon.
Applications are open in two tracks. The general national application, offering 50 places, is open until June 15, 2026, through a dedicated form. Additionally, an exclusive call for the NOVA community offers three places, with applications open until June 5, 2026 via a specific form. Members of the NOVA community may apply through both routes.
General national application form (50 places) open until 15 June 2026 here
Exclusive application for the NOVA community (3 places) open until 5 June 2026 here
For more information, please contact health.parliament@unl.pt
Members of the NOVA community may apply simultaneously through both channels.