People – Portugal FAQs for Expats

Question 1

Who is Ana Paula Martins?

Accepted Answer

Ana Paula Martins is a Portuguese pharmacist and politician who has served as the Minister of Health in Portugal since April 2024. A member of the Social Democratic Party (PSD), she was reappointed to the position in the second government of Prime Minister Luís Montenegro in June 2025.

**Professional Background**

Pharmaceutical Leadership: She served as the President of the Order of Pharmacists (Bastonária da Ordem dos Farmacêuticos) from 2016 to 2022.

Hospital Management: She was the President of the Board of Directors of Hospital de Santa Maria (CHULN) in Lisbon from December 2022 to January 2024.

Academic Work: She holds a PhD in Clinical Pharmacy and has been an assistant professor at the Faculty of Pharmacy of the University of Lisbon for over 20 years.

**Political Career**

Government Role: As Minister of Health, she has overseen the implementation of the "SNS Emergency Plan" and recently addressed issues such as INEM staffing and public-private partnerships in healthcare.

Party Leadership: She served as Vice President of the PSD under Rui Rio (2021–2022).

Parliament: She was elected as a member of the Assembly of the Republic representing the Lisbon constituency in 2024.

Question 2

Who is André Ventura?

Accepted Answer

André Ventura, born January 15, 1983, is a lawyer, academic, and Portugal's most prominent far-right leader. He founded Chega ("Enough") in 2019 after his PSD mayoral campaign attacked the Romani community. Chega surged from 1.3% in 2019 to 22.8% in May 2025, becoming parliament's second-largest party and making Ventura Leader of the Opposition.

His platform emphasizes immigration restrictions, law-and-order policies, constitutional reform, and contains inflammatory anti-Romani rhetoric that has triggered multiple discrimination convictions and investigations. Politically classified as far-right by international media, Ventura cultivates alliances with European far-right figures including Marine Le Pen and Santiago Abascal.

Question 3

Who is António Costa?

Accepted Answer

- President of the European Council (since Dec 2024)
- Former Prime Minister of Portugal (November 2015 – April 2024)
- Party: Socialist Party (PS) *Partido Socialista*
- He is of Portuguese and Indian (Goan) descent

António Luís Santos da Costa (born July 17, 1961, in Lisbon) is a Portuguese lawyer and Socialist politician who served as Prime Minister of Portugal from 2015-2024 and currently serves as President of the European Council since December 1, 2024. After leading the Lisbon Municipal Assembly and practicing law, he was elected MEP (2004-2005) and entered parliament in 2002. He led the Socialist Party from 2014-2024, building unprecedented parliamentary coalitions with the Communist Party and Left Bloc (2015-2019) before winning an absolute majority in 2022. He resigned as PM in November 2023 following a corruption investigation, though subsequently cleared. The 27 EU member states elected him Council President in June 2024, making him the fourth full-time President and the first southern European socialist in that role.
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*Political Philosophy:*

Costa represents moderate European social democracy, combining orthodox fiscal responsibility with progressive social investment. He prioritizes European integration, consensus-building, and pragmatic compromise over ideological confrontation. As Council President, he champions mediation between member states, improved EU inter-institutional relations, shorter decision-making processes, and regular visits to every EU capital to reconnect citizens with European institutions. His approach emphasizes "creative bridges" reconciling divergent interests while maintaining firmness on European values, particularly regarding Ukraine.

Question 4

Who is António José Seguro?

Accepted Answer

- President of Portugal (since March 9, 2026)
- Party: Independent. Former leader of the Socialist Party (PS), *Partido Socialista*
- Center-left

António José Martins Seguro (born March 11, 1962, in Penamacor) is a lawyer, political scientist, and the current President of the Portuguese Republic, inaugurated on March 9, 2026 after winning the two-round presidential election in January–February 2026.

**Career:** He led Socialist Youth (1990–1994), served as MEP (1999–2001), was Minister Adjunct to PM António Guterres (2001–2002), and led the PS parliamentary group (2004–2005). Elected PS Secretary-General in 2011 with 68%, he led the opposition during Portugal's bailout era. In 2014, António Costa defeated him in party primaries by a landslide, prompting Seguro's resignation and a decade-long retreat from politics. He returned in 2025, launching the movement *UPortugal* and announcing his presidential candidacy in June. He received official PS backing in October 2025 and won the presidency in February 2026.

**Political philosophy:** Seguro positions himself as representing a "modern and moderate" left, advocating financial responsibility while opposing austerity. As President, he has emphasized institutional trust, efficient governance, and a collaborative relationship with the government while maintaining rigorous constitutional oversight.

Question 5

Who is Carlos César?

Accepted Answer

Carlos César is the President of the Socialist Party (*Partido Socialista* or *PS*) and a candidate for re-election to the position. He was the President of the Regional Government of the Azores (*Governo Regional dos Açores*) for 16 years between 1996 and 2012. Those following political news should note that while the Secretary-General leads the party, the President acts as a senior representative and moderator.

Question 6

Who is Carlos Moedas and what is his role in Lisbon politics?

Accepted Answer

Carlos Manuel Félix Moedas (born August 10, 1970, in Beja) is a civil engineer, economist, and center-right politician who has served as Mayor of Lisbon since October 2021. He earned degrees in civil engineering from Instituto Superior Técnico and an MBA from Harvard, working at Goldman Sachs and founding his own investment firm before entering politics. During Portugal's 2011-14 bailout, he served as Secretary of State coordinating Troika-mandated structural reforms. From 2014-19, he was European Commissioner for Research, Science and Innovation, managing €77 billion in research funding and designing the €100 billion Horizon Europe program.
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Moedas narrowly won Lisbon's mayoralty in 2021 with 34.3%, defeating Socialist incumbent Fernando Medina. Governing initially with a minority coalition, he implemented free public transport for youth and elderly residents, launched the "Unicorn Factory Lisboa" innovation hub attracting 82 tech companies and 16,000 jobs, and won Lisbon the 2023 European Capital of Innovation award. He was re-elected in October 2025 with 41.7%, securing eight of nine council seats.
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His significance lies in shifting Lisbon's political trajectory rightward after decades of Socialist governance, positioning the capital as a European tech hub while prioritizing housing development, carbon neutrality by 2030, and innovation-driven economic growth.

Question 7

Who is Henrique Gouveia e Melo?

Accepted Answer

- 2026 Presidential Candidate
- Party: Independent
- Retired Portuguese Navy officer
- Former coordinator of Portugal's COVID-19 Vaccination Taskforce
- Centrist pragmatist

Henrique Eduardo Passaláqua de Gouveia e Melo (born November 21, 1960, in Quelimane, Mozambique) is a retired Portuguese Navy Admiral running for president in the January 18, 2026 election as an independent candidate. He entered the Naval School in 1979 and built a 45-year military career, commanding submarines NRP Delfim and NRP Barracuda, the frigate NRP Vasco da Gama, and serving as Naval Commander (2017-2020) and Chief of Naval Staff (2021-2024). His national prominence surged in 2021 when he was appointed coordinator of Portugal's COVID-19 vaccination task force, which achieved the world's highest vaccination rates, earning him a spot on Jornal de Negócios' list of 50 Most Powerful People. He announced his presidential campaign on May 29, 2025, backed by the People's Monarchist Party.
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Political Philosophy:

Gouveia e Melo positions himself as a "centrist pragmatist" focused on institutional balance, effective governance, and consensus-building. He advocates for demanding presidential oversight of democratic institutions without institutional opposition to government, emphasizing "institutional loyalty" paired with rigorous accountability. His platform prioritizes growth, social cohesion, and equitable development, rejecting ideology for pragmatic results-oriented leadership

Question 8

How do ICS/ISCTE polls influence Portuguese political debate?

Accepted Answer

The ICS/ISCTE is a research partnership that produces influential public opinion polls in Portugal. It brings together the Institute of Social Sciences (*Instituto de Ciências Sociais*) and the University Institute of Lisbon (*ISCTE - Instituto Universitário de Lisboa*). These studies are often used by national media to measure public satisfaction with government policies on housing and the economy.

Question 9

Who is Isabel Mendes Lopes?

Accepted Answer

Isabel Mendes Lopes is a spokesperson for the political party Livre. She is a member of the Portuguese Parliament (*Assembleia da República*) and represents the party in legislative debates and negotiations.

Question 10

Who is Isaltino Morais?

Accepted Answer

Isaltino Morais is the Mayor of Oeiras, a wealthy municipality near Lisbon, having held the office for most of the period since 1986. He is a well-known political figure who returned to power in 2017 after serving a prison sentence for tax evasion and money laundering. Residents should note that he remains a highly influential local leader despite recurring legal challenges regarding his administration's use of public funds.

Question 11

Who is João Cotrim de Figueiredo?

Accepted Answer

- 2026 Presidential Candidate
- Party: Liberal Initiative (IL) *Iniciativa Liberal*
- Businessman from Lisbon
- Economic Liberalism, reduced state intervention, pro-Europe

João Fernando Cotrim de Figueiredo (born June 24, 1961, in Lisbon) is a businessman and liberal politician running for Portugal's presidency in the January 18, 2026 election. He grew up in Lisbon, studied Economics at the London School of Economics and earned an MBA from NOVA University Lisbon. He held executive positions at Compal, Nutricafés, Privado Holding, and TVI, and served as president of Turismo de Portugal (2013-2016), overseeing tourism industry growth during his tenure. He was elected as the Liberal Initiative's first parliamentary deputy in October 2019, led the party (2019-2023) while it grew from 1 to 8 seats with 5% of votes in 2022, and was elected European Parliament member in 2024. He announced his presidential candidacy in August 2025, backed by the Liberal Initiative.
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Political Philosophy:

Cotrim de Figueiredo champions liberal economics—tax reduction, labour market liberalization, and welfare reform—alongside cultural and secular liberalism. His campaign emphasizes "Culture, Knowledge and Growth," positioning himself as representing younger voters alienated by traditional candidates, and explicitly states he expects a "second-round" runoff result. He advocates for a future-prepared Portugal distinct from current political offerings.

Question 12

Who is Joaquim Miranda Sarmento?

Accepted Answer

- Minister of State and Finance (2024–present)
- Party: Social Democratic Party (PSD), *Partido Social Democrata*
- Background: Economist, university professor (ISEG)

Joaquim Miranda Sarmento is Portugal's Finance Minister in the AD government led by Luís Montenegro. An economist and professor at ISEG (Lisbon School of Economics & Management), he served as PSD parliamentary group leader before joining the government.

As Finance Minister, he oversees the state budget, tax policy, public debt management, and fiscal relations with the EU. His decisions on tax brackets, IRS withholding tables, housing incentives, and public spending directly affect residents' cost of living and investment climate.

Question 13

Who is Luís Marques Mendes?

Accepted Answer

- 2026 Presidential candidate
- Party: Social Democratic Party (PSD) *Partido Social Democrata*
- Lawyer, veteran center right politician

Luís Marques Mendes (born September 5, 1957, in Guimarães) is a lawyer and veteran centre-right politician running for Portugal's presidency in the January 18, 2026 election. A PSD member since 1975, he served across four constitutional governments spanning 13 years as Secretary of State and Minister under Prime Ministers Cavaco Silva and Durão Barroso, creating the Lusa News Agency and RTP Internacional. He led the PSD parliamentary group (1996-1999) and later served as party president (2005-2007), earning a reputation for ethical governance. After leaving politics, he worked as a lawyer at Abreu Advogados and became a prominent political commentator on SIC television. In 2026, backed by the ruling PSD and the allied CDS-PP, Mendes emerged as the centre-right establishment candidate. Recent polling shows him tied or leading first-round voting intention, and polls consistently indicate he is the most viable winner against other candidates in runoff scenarios, making him a strong contender.

Question 14

Who is Luís Montenegro and what is his role in Portuguese politics?

Accepted Answer

- Prime Minister, Portugal: 2024 - Present
- Party: Social Democratic Party (PSD)

Luís Filipe Montenegro Cardoso de Morais Esteves (born February 16, 1973, in Porto) is a Portuguese lawyer and center‑right politician who has served as Prime Minister of Portugal since April 2, 2024. A long‑time member of the Social Democratic Party (PSD), he is the leading figure of the post‑Troika generation of Portuguese conservatives.
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Montenegro was elected to the Assembly of the Republic in 2002 for the Aveiro district and remained an MP for 16 years, becoming PSD parliamentary leader from 2011 to 2017 during the bailout and austerity period under Prime Minister Pedro Passos Coelho. He was a prominent defender of strict austerity measures, arguing in 2014 that “the life of the people is no better, but the life of the country is a lot better,” a phrase that has followed his public image since.
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After an unsuccessful leadership bid against Rui Rio in 2020, Montenegro won the PSD leadership in 2022. He then forged the centre‑right Democratic Alliance (PSD–CDS‑PP and allies), which won a plurality of seats in the 2024 legislative election. Refusing to partner with the far‑right Chega, which he has called “often xenophobic, racist, populist and excessively demagogic,” he formed a minority government as head of the XXIV Constitutional Government on April 2, 2024.
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His first government fell in March 2025 after a no‑confidence vote linked to a conflict‑of‑interest affair, but fresh elections saw the Democratic Alliance increase its seat share, allowing Montenegro to return as prime minister leading the XXV Constitutional Government. His importance to Portugal lies in attempting to re‑center the traditional centre‑right after the crisis years, defending liberal‑conservative economics and EU alignment while drawing a sharp line against formal cooperation with the radical right, thus shaping how Portuguese democracy manages its new multi‑party era.

Question 15

Who is Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa?

Accepted Answer

- Former President of Portugal (2016–2026)
- Party: Independent (formerly Social Democratic Party, PSD)

*Electoral Mandate and Democratic Consensus:*

Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa was elected President of Portugal on January 24, 2016, winning 52.0% of the vote in the first round—a decisive victory in a fragmented field. He campaigned as an independent, positioning himself as a unifying figure after years of austerity from Portugal's 2011–14 bailout, promising to repair political divisions and restore national confidence. His campaign emphasized moderation and cross-party consensus, a departure from his decades-long association with the center-right Social Democratic Party (PSD). Upon taking office on March 9, 2016, he suspended his party membership for the duration of his presidency.​

His 2021 re-election proved extraordinary: Rebelo de Sousa secured 60.7% of the vote—the third-highest margin in Portuguese presidential electoral history since the 1974 Carnation Revolution. Historically, he became the first candidate ever to win in all 308 municipalities and the vast majority of parishes, ranging from 51.3% in Beja District to 72.16% in Madeira. This unprecedented sweep reflected his broad appeal across social, geographic, and ideological divides.​

*Constitutional Role and Crisis Leadership:*

Portugal operates as a semi-presidential system where the president, while largely ceremonial, exercises meaningful influence over national security, foreign policy, and military affairs as Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. Rebelo de Sousa leveraged this authority during Portugal's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. In March 2020, he requested parliamentary authorization for a state of emergency—the first nationwide declaration in 46 years of democratic history—to contain the crisis. He voluntarily quarantined after potential COVID-19 exposure in March 2020, and later tested positive in January 2021 while remaining asymptomatic. His measured handling of the pandemic, balancing public health with institutional continuity, contributed to his landslide 2021 re-election.​

*Diplomatic Engagement and International Presence:*

Rebelo de Sousa has conducted extensive state visits representing Portugal's interests across diverse regions: the Vatican, Spain, Mozambique, Morocco, Brazil, Switzerland, Cuba, the United Kingdom, Greece, the United States, and Angola. A notable diplomatic highlight occurred in 2019 when he joined President Emmanuel Macron at the Bastille Day military parade in Paris, representing European military cooperation and the European Intervention Initiative. These engagements positioned Portugal as an active participant in global affairs, particularly regarding colonial history and Atlantic security partnerships.​

*Colonial Legacy and Historical Accountability:*

During his presidency, Rebelo de Sousa has publicly supported making restitution and acknowledging abuses committed during Portugal's colonial history and the country's role in the Atlantic slave trade. This position marked a significant policy shift, as Portugal historically avoided confronting its imperial past compared to other European powers. His stance reflected evolving attitudes within Portuguese society toward historical accountability.​

*Controversies and Public Criticism:*

Rebelo de Sousa's presidency has not been without controversy. In 2023, allegations emerged that he had intervened to expedite treatment for Brazilian twins with Zolgensma, an expensive rare disease medication, raising questions about presidential influence and potential corruption. These claims implicated his son and generated criticism across Portuguese political and media sectors. Additionally, in April 2024, Rebelo de Sousa made controversial remarks comparing the speed of Prime Ministers António Costa and Luís Montenegro using orientalist language that drew public rebuke. In August 2025, he called U.S. President Donald Trump a "Russian asset" at a PSD event, demonstrating his willingness to make provocative foreign policy statements.​

*Constitutional Constraints and Legacy:*

Under Portugal's constitution, Rebelo de Sousa is barred from running for a third consecutive term, meaning his presidency concludes with elections scheduled for January 18, 2026. His decade-long tenure has established him as one of Portugal's most popular recent heads of state, characterized by broad consensus-building and institutional stability. Whether future presidents can replicate his cross-party appeal remains an open question for Portuguese democracy as it enters a new era.​

Question 16

Who is María Corina Machado?

Accepted Answer

María Corina Machado is a prominent Venezuelan opposition leader and former member of the National Assembly. She is a key figure in the movement challenging the government of Nicolás Maduro and has been a vocal advocate for democratic reforms in Venezuela.

Question 17

Who is Maria da Graça Carvalho?

Accepted Answer

- Minister of Environment and Energy (2024–present)
- Party: Social Democratic Party (PSD), *Partido Social Democrata*
- Background: Mechanical engineer, academic, former MEP

Maria da Graça Carvalho (born 1955) is a Portuguese engineer and politician serving as Minister of Environment and Energy in the AD government. She holds a PhD in mechanical engineering and had a distinguished academic career at Instituto Superior Técnico, specializing in energy systems and building physics.

She served as a Member of the European Parliament (2009–2024), where she focused on research policy, innovation funding (Horizon 2020/Europe), and energy policy. Before entering politics, she was a scientific advisor to European Commission President José Manuel Barroso.

As Environment Minister, she oversees Portugal's energy transition, renewable energy expansion, water resources management, climate adaptation, and environmental regulation — portfolios that are central to issues like wildfire prevention, coastal erosion, and meeting EU climate targets.

Question 18

Who is Mário Centeno?

Accepted Answer

- Governor of Banco de Portugal (2020–present)
- Former: Minister of Finance (2015–2020), President of the Eurogroup (2018–2020)
- Party: Independent (PS-affiliated)
- Background: Economist (PhD, Harvard)

Mário José Gomes de Freitas Centeno (born 1966) is Portugal's central bank governor and one of the country's most internationally recognized economic figures. As Finance Minister under António Costa's first PS government, he became known as "Cristiano Ronaldo of European finance" for turning Portugal's deficit into a surplus while reversing austerity.

He was elected president of the Eurogroup (the informal body of euro area finance ministers) in 2018 — the first Portuguese to hold the role. Since becoming Governor of Banco de Portugal in 2020, he sits on the ECB's Governing Council and oversees Portuguese banking supervision and financial stability.

Question 19

How does Portela relate to Lisbon airport's capacity and delays?

Accepted Answer

Portela is the common local name for Humberto Delgado Airport (*Aeroporto Humberto Delgado*), so media references to Portela point to Lisbon's main airport and its operational limits. When reports cite Portela's delays or capacity problems, that means impacts on flight punctuality and route availability for people travelling to or from the capital.

Question 20

Who is Rosário Palma Ramalho?

Accepted Answer

- Minister of Labour, Solidarity and Social Security (2024–present)
- Party: Independent (appointed by AD government)
- Background: Professor of Labour Law, University of Lisbon

Rosário Maria Ribeiro da Costa Palma Ramalho is a distinguished labor law academic who was appointed Minister of Labour in the XXV Constitutional Government under Luís Montenegro. She is one of Portugal's leading experts on employment law, having authored major textbooks and legal commentaries on the Portuguese Labour Code.

As minister, she leads negotiations with trade unions (CGTP, UGT) and employer confederations on labor reform, including changes to dismissal rules, working time flexibility, and collective bargaining. Her academic background gives her unusual technical authority in a portfolio that is typically politically charged.

Question 21

Who is Rui Rio?

Accepted Answer

- Former Mayor of Porto (2002–2013)
- Former PSD Leader (2018–2022)
- Party: Social Democratic Party (PSD), *Partido Social Democrata*

Rui Fernando da Silva Rio (born 1957) is a Portuguese politician and tax consultant known for his moderate, fiscally disciplined approach to center-right politics. As mayor of Porto for over a decade, he was credited with stabilizing the city's finances and overseeing urban regeneration.

He led the PSD from 2018 to 2022, adopting a conciliatory tone that contrasted with the more combative style of other PSD leaders. He lost the 2022 legislative election to the PS's António Costa (who won an absolute majority) and was succeeded as PSD leader by Luís Montenegro. He remains an influential voice in PSD internal debates and is occasionally cited in commentary on the party's direction.

Question 22

Who is Rui Tavares?

Accepted Answer

Rui Tavares is a historian, writer, and politician who serves as a spokesperson for the political party Livre. He has been a member of the Assembly of the Republic (*Assembleia da República*) since 2022 and previously served as a member of the European Parliament from 2009 to 2014.

Question 23

What is the Volta system?

Accepted Answer

Volta is a national deposit and refund system (*sistema de depósito e reembolso*) for beverage containers launching in Portugal on April 10. It requires consumers to pay a 10-cent deposit on single-use bottles and cans, which is refunded when the empty container is returned to a collection point.

Question 24

Who is Adalberto Campos Fernandes?

Accepted Answer

Adalberto Campos Fernandes is a physician and academic who served as Portugal's Minister of Health from 2015 to 2018. He is currently tasked by President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa with coordinating a new Strategic Pact for Health (*Pacto Estratégico para a Saúde*), aimed at building consensus for long-term improvements in the national health system.

Question 25

Who is Alberto Laplaine Guimarães?

Accepted Answer

Alberto Laplaine Guimarães was the Secretary-General of the Lisbon City Council (*Câmara Municipal de Lisboa*), the city's highest-ranking administrative official. He was arrested in 2023 following investigations into alleged corruption surrounding public procurement contracts, specifically those for the city's Christmas lighting. Lisbon residents should note that this case has led to new demands for transparency in how the municipality awards large service contracts.

Question 26

Who is Alberto Ramos?

Accepted Answer

Alberto Ramos is the Country Manager of Bankinter Portugal, leading the bank's operations since it entered the Portuguese market in 2016. He oversees the branch's strategy to grow its market share in corporate and retail banking, aiming to compete with major domestic banks like Crédito Agrícola and Banco Montepio.

Question 27

Who is Ali Khamenei?

Accepted Answer

Ali Khamenei was Iran's Supreme Leader, the country's highest authority, a position he held from 1989 until his death. He previously served as Iran's president from 1981 to 1989, and as Supreme Leader he had final say over the armed forces, the judiciary and senior state appointments. Those following Middle East politics or travelling in the region should note his death could affect domestic stability and regional tensions.

Question 28

Who is Álvaro Santos Pereira?

Accepted Answer

Álvaro Santos Pereira is a Portuguese economist who served as Minister of Economy from 2011 to 2013. He is a frequent public commentator on economic and public-policy issues and has used X and LinkedIn to call for radical changes to Portugal’s disaster preparedness after recent storms, so residents and policymakers often pay attention to his proposals.

Question 29

Who is Amanda Abreu?

Accepted Answer

Amanda Abreu is a Brazilian immigrant who is preparing a complaint to the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) alleging long delays by the Agency for Integration, Migration and Asylum (*Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo* or AIMA). Her case, mentioned to Lusa, aims to obtain accounting records to support the action and highlights that migrants may use the ECHR if domestic administrative delays affect their rights.

Question 30

Who is Amanda Lima?

Accepted Answer

Amanda Lima is a journalist who appears on Radar DN Brasil, the Brazil-focused segment of Diário de Notícias, and in the cited video she comments on cases of Brazilians harmed by delays in AIMA's delivery of residence permits. Those affected by delays from AIMA (*Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo*) should follow AIMA's official updates and consider contacting consular services or legal/immigration advice for their specific cases.

Question 31

Who is Ana Abrunhosa?

Accepted Answer

Ana Abrunhosa (born July 4, 1970) is the Mayor of Coimbra, elected in the 2025 local elections, and is noted as the second woman to hold this position. She is an economist and university professor, formerly serving as Portugal's Minister of Territorial Cohesion (2019–2024). She is known for taking an active, vocal role in local infrastructure and crisis management.Key Facts About Ana Abrunhosa:

Political Role: Elected Mayor of Coimbra in 2025, representing the Socialist Party (PS).Background:

She is an economist and served as the Minister of Territorial Cohesion from October 2019 to April 2024.

Leadership Style: Recently highlighted for her firm, hands-on approach to local issues, including tackling infrastructure challenges and managing damage from severe weather (storm KRISTIN) in 2026.

Conflict Management: Gained attention for publicly confronting the national Minister of Agriculture over local infrastructure projects (Casais dike) in February 2026.

Question 32

Who is Ana Catarina Mendes?

Accepted Answer

Ana Catarina Mendes is a Member of the European Parliament and a senior figure in the Socialist Party (*Partido Socialista*). She previously served as the Minister in the Presidency from 2022 to 2024, where she managed government coordination and parliamentary relations. Those following national politics should note her role in mediating high-level agreements between the country's major political parties.

Question 33

Who is Ana Luísa Matias?

Accepted Answer

Ana Luísa Matias is a doctor who spoke in Expresso's project "Forgotten Diseases, Unique People" about the role of general and family medicine in diagnosing gynaecological cancer. Her comments in the piece highlight how primary‑care doctors can affect early detection and referral, which patients and primary‑care users should note.

Question 34

Who is Ana Simões Silva?

Accepted Answer

Ana Simões Silva is a Lisbon city councillor who, according to reports on 19 January 2026, disaffiliated from the Chega party citing political incompatibilities. Her exit matters locally because shifts in party affiliation can change municipal council dynamics and influence decisions on city services that residents and businesses rely on.

Question 35

Who is Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor?

Accepted Answer

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor is the son of Queen Elizabeth II and the younger brother of King Charles III, commonly known as Prince Andrew. He stepped back from public royal duties after scrutiny over his association with Jeffrey Epstein, has faced civil litigation (including a U.S. settlement in 2022), and is the subject of recent criminal-suspect reports noted in the news; the story may prompt international media and consular interest for those following high-profile legal cases.

Question 36

Who is Aníbal Cavaco Silva?

Accepted Answer

Aníbal Cavaco Silva is a former Prime Minister (1985–1995) and former President of Portugal (2006–2016) from the Social Democratic Party (*Partido Social Democrata* or *PSD*). He led the country during its early years in the European Union and is known for his focus on economic stability and modernization. As a senior political figure, he remains influential and recently criticized the lack of credibility in newer political movements like Chega.

Question 37

Who is António Casimiro?

Accepted Answer

António Casimiro was a Portuguese scenographer and costume designer known for his work in theatre; he served on the board of the Casa do Artista. He died on Friday, 23 February at the age of 91 in Lisbon, according to the Casa do Artista, and his passing is noted by the local arts community and theatre-goers.

Question 38

Who is António Filipe?

Accepted Answer

António Filipe is a politician from the PCP (*Partido Comunista Português*) who, in this story, acknowledged that his election results fell short and said the party would join forces to oppose what it called a 'serious threat to democracy'. His remarks indicate the PCP intends to be active in post-election alliances rather than withdrawing from national debates. Voters and those following left-wing politics should pay attention to his and the PCP's next moves.

Question 39

Who is António Guterres?

Accepted Answer

António Guterres is the Secretary-General of the United Nations and served as the Prime Minister of Portugal from 1995 to 2002. A member of the Socialist Party (*Partido Socialista*), he also led the UN Refugee Agency for a decade before taking the top UN post in 2017. Those living in Portugal should note that he remains a highly respected figure whose international influence often brings global attention to Portuguese diplomatic priorities.

Question 40

Who is António Leitão Amaro?

Accepted Answer

António Leitão Amaro is Portugal's Minister of the Presidency (*Ministro da Presidência*) in the government led by Luís Montenegro. He is a key figure in the Social Democratic Party (*Partido Social Democrata* or *PSD*) and often is the government's spokesperson. Those following housing and rental policy should note his role in announcing the June 2024 measures regarding evictions and inheritances.

Question 41

Who is António Martins Baptista?

Accepted Answer

António Martins Baptista is a representative of the Portuguese Society of Internal Medicine (*Sociedade Portuguesa de Medicina Interna*) who presented a hospital reform proposal to the government. He has said that growing demand—more consultations and surgeries—helps explain the rise in NHS waiting lists.

Question 42

Who is António Ramalho Eanes?

Accepted Answer

António Ramalho Eanes is a former President of Portugal who served from 1976 to 1986 and is a retired army general who played a leading role during the country's transition to democracy after 1974. His public endorsements still attract attention because he is a well-known elder statesman in Portuguese politics.

Question 43

Who is Armindo Monteiro?

Accepted Answer

Armindo Monteiro is the president of CIP - Confederação Empresarial de Portugal (Confederation of Portuguese Business). He said on Monday that the government's proposed labour-law revision is "balanced" and called for dialogue between employers' and workers' representatives, a position that matters because CIP represents major employers and can shape labour negotiations affecting companies and workers in Portugal.

Question 44

Who is Bernardo Trindade?

Accepted Answer

Bernardo Trindade is the president of the Portuguese Hospitality Association (*Associação da Hotelaria de Portugal*). He represents hotels and related businesses and recently warned that the 'green light' cooperation protocol for regulated labour migration is insufficient for the sector, urging the government to revisit the regime.

Question 45

Who is Bruno Vitorino?

Accepted Answer

Bruno Vitorino is a member of the Portuguese parliament (MP) who has asked for the Social Democratic Party's (PSD, *Partido Social Democrata*) bill on civil-registry gender and name changes to be withdrawn. His request matters to transgender people and anyone seeking legal name or gender recognition because the PSD proposal would reintroduce medical validation, and parliamentary disagreement could alter or block the bill.

Question 46

Who is Carlos Gouveia e Melo?

Accepted Answer

Carlos Gouveia e Melo is a retired Portuguese Navy admiral who became a national public figure when he was appointed at the end of 2020 to lead Portugal’s COVID-19 vaccination task force. He oversaw the vaccine rollout through 2021, gaining a reputation for clear communication and logistical focus; his work directly affected vaccine access for residents and foreigners living in Portugal.

Question 47

Who is Carlos Jalali?

Accepted Answer

Carlos Jalali is the coordinator of the Study Centre at the Francisco Manuel dos Santos Foundation (*Fundação Francisco Manuel dos Santos*), a Portuguese research organisation. He studies electoral behaviour and has commented on expectations for lower abstention in the current presidential vote.

Question 48

Who is Catarina Martins and what role does the Bloco de Esquerda ("*Bloco de Esquerda*") play in Portuguese politics?

Accepted Answer

Catarina Martins is a prominent left‑wing politician who served as national coordinator of the Bloco de Esquerda ("*Bloco de Esquerda*") for many years and remains an influential figure on the Portuguese left. The Bloco is a progressive, parliamentary party that pushes for social justice, workers' rights and strong welfare policies; it has been a regular coalition or support partner in left‑leaning governments and shapes debates on issues like housing, health and foreign policy.

Question 49

Who is Catarina Martins?

Accepted Answer

Catarina Soares Martins (born September 7, 1973, in Porto) is a former actress and theatre co-founder who became Portugal's most prominent left-wing leader. First elected to parliament in 2009 representing the Left Bloc (BE), she rose to party coordinator in 2012 and sole national coordinator in 2014, holding the position for 11 years—the longest tenure in BE history. Under her leadership, BE achieved its best-ever result in 2015 with 19 MPs and 10% of votes, becoming critical parliamentary support for Prime Minister António Costa's Socialist government, shifting policy leftward on labour rights, pensions, and public services. After BE's collapse to 5 MPs in 2022, Martins stepped down as leader in May 2023 and left parliament.

*Current role:*

In 2024, she was elected to the European Parliament, where she advocates for social justice, climate action, and human rights. Her significance lies in consolidating BE as a stable parliamentary force and normalizing leftist government cooperation in Portugal.

Question 50

Who is Christine Lagarde?

Accepted Answer

Christine Lagarde is President of the European Central Bank since November 2019 and was Managing Director of the IMF from 2011 to 2019. Her decisions and public statements influence ECB monetary policy, which affects euro interest rates, mortgages and inflation across the euro area.

Question 51

Who is Christine Ourmières-Widener?

Accepted Answer

Christine Ourmières-Widener is a former executive at TAP Air Portugal who was dismissed by the government in March 2023 and has filed legal action contesting that dismissal after a General Inspectorate of Finance (*Inspeção-Geral de Finanças* or IGF) report about a €500,000 payment to Alexandra Reis. The case centres on whether the dismissal for "just cause" was lawful and has implications for governance at the state-linked airline.

Question 52

Who is Cláudia Reis Duarte?

Accepted Answer

Cláudia Reis Duarte spoke about the "Tourism Welcomes" programme, which offers temporary accommodation for victims of storm Kristin and for workers assigned to reconstruction efforts; 14 hotels have already joined across the 69 affected municipalities. In the story she is presented as the official communicating the scheme and the tourism sector's mobilisation to help with emergency housing.

Question 53

Who is Cristiano Ronaldo?

Accepted Answer

Cristiano Ronaldo is a professional footballer and captain of the Portugal national team. He is widely recognized as one of the most successful players in the history of the sport, having won five Ballon d'Or awards and numerous league titles across Europe.

Question 54

Who is Dan Jørgensen?

Accepted Answer

Dan Jørgensen is the European Commissioner for Housing, and he is visiting Lisbon at the end of the week according to the report. His visit matters because he has said Portugal is among the EU countries hardest hit by the housing crisis and has promised EU measures to regulate short-term rentals, which could affect hosts and renters.

Question 55

Who is Daniel Coelho?

Accepted Answer

Daniel Coelho is the vice-president of the Portuguese Psychologists' Association and a public spokesperson on mental-health responses to the recent natural disasters in Portugal. He has been explaining what authorities and mental-health services are doing to reduce psychological harm and which symptoms to watch for after traumatic events. If you experience persistent anxiety, insomnia, flashbacks or severe distress, contact your GP, your local SNS centre or a registered psychologist for support.

Question 56

Who is Daniela Silva e Sousa?

Accepted Answer

Daniela Silva e Sousa is the General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer of Start Campus, the company developing the data centre campus in Sines. She spoke to ECO/Advocatus about the project's projected 1.2 GW capacity and the estimated €8.5 billion investment, described as one of the largest foreign private investments in Portugal; investors and those in the energy, construction or local services sectors should follow the project's progress.

Question 57

Who is Delcy Rodríguez?

Accepted Answer

Delcy Rodríguez is a Venezuelan politician who has served as Vice President of Venezuela since June 2018 and previously served as Minister of Foreign Affairs from 2014 to 2017. She is a leading figure in the ruling United Socialist Party (*Partido Socialista Unido de Venezuela*) and often speaks for the Maduro administration, so those following regional diplomacy or consular matters should note her role.

Question 58

Who is Donald J. Trump?

Accepted Answer

Donald John Trump (born June 14, 1946, in Queens, New York) is the 47th and 45th President of the United States, serving from 2017-2021 and again from January 20, 2025. A real estate developer and former reality television host, he previously owned the Trump Organization and hosted The Apprentice. He is the second president to serve non-consecutive terms after Grover Cleveland, the oldest to assume the presidency, and the first convicted felon to hold office. He defeated Kamala Harris in November 2024, winning 312 electoral votes.
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*Comments / Relationship with Portugal:*

Trump met President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa at the White House in June 2018, praising the "tremendous relationship" between the nations and noting 1.5 million Portuguese-Americans. They discussed NATO defense spending, energy diversification, and bilateral ties. In August 2025, Marcelo controversially called Trump "objectively a Soviet or Russian asset". Trump's 2025 administration sent letters to Portuguese companies requiring abandonment of diversity, equity, and inclusion programs under his anti-DEI executive order. Portugal's Defense Minister cited Trump's unpredictable NATO stance when considering European jets over American F-35s to replace aging F-16s.

Question 59

Who is Emmanuel Macron?

Accepted Answer

Emmanuel Macron is the President of France, first elected in 2017 and re‑elected in 2022, and is associated with the centrist Renaissance movement. He is engaging European counterparts about using EU tools like the anti‑coercion instrument to respond to international trade threats.

Question 60

Who is Fábio Teixeira?

Accepted Answer

Fábio Teixeira is a nurse who was briefly appointed coordinator of the Mission Structure for Renewable Energies and resigned four days after the appointment was published; the Environment Minister said she learned about the appointment through the press and did not agree with it. The episode is relevant to those watching government appointments and transparency because it led to a rapid reversal and public scrutiny.

Question 61

Who was Fany Pinheiro Magalhães?

Accepted Answer

Fany Pinheiro Magalhães was a 22‑year‑old Portuguese woman from Santa Maria da Feira who lived in Crans‑Montana, Switzerland; her car was found parked near a nightclub where she was last seen. Her case prompted local investigations and media coverage, with authorities and possibly consular channels involved given her residence abroad...

Question 62

Who is Fernando Alexandre?

Accepted Answer

Fernando Alexandre is the Minister of Education, Science, and Innovation in Portugal's current government, which took office in April 2024. An economist by training, he previously served as a Secretary of State and is now responsible for managing the national school system and university funding. He recently sparked debate by suggesting that university tuition fees should be adjusted to account for inflation.

Question 63

Who is Fernando Araújo?

Accepted Answer

Fernando Araújo is a physician and the former Executive Director of the National Health Service (*Serviço Nacional de Saúde* or *SNS*), a position he held until mid-2024. He was responsible for the Local Health Units (*Unidades Locais de Saúde*) reform, which integrated hospital and primary care services to improve efficiency. SNS patients should note that his public criticisms often highlight ongoing issues with emergency room wait times and medical staffing.

Question 64

Who is Fernando Ulrich?

Accepted Answer

Fernando Ulrich is the non-executive president of Banco BPI, and he commented publicly about mortgage spreads during a period when banks were accused of acting in collusion. As a senior bank figure, his statements carry weight for debates about bank conduct and the cost of consumer lending.