The Observatory of Social Challenges (ODESS) has the following main objectives:
- To learn about the Portuguese population’s updated perspectives on social, economic, labor and political issues, through annual studies;
- Investigate relevant social issues such as immigration, LGBT+ rights, gender equality, discrimination against minority groups, work-family balance, retirement, exposure to psychosocial risk factors and well-being at work.
- Analyze socioeconomic and political issues, including perception of corruption, populism and social control.
- Contribute to the development of public policies, providing data and analysis that guide fairer and more effective political decisions.
- Promote social inclusion, in different situations and contexts, through a sustained identification of potential areas for improvement.
- Encourage public debate on fundamental issues that affect Portuguese society, through the dissemination of scientific knowledge.