Passos calls for new immigration model, doubts return

Sunday, 1 March 2026AI summary
Passos calls for new immigration model, doubts return
Photo: Correio da Manhã

Former prime minister Pedro Passos Coelho argued that opening the doors to immigration was “a big mistake” and called for a new model to manage arrivals and integration. Speaking at a Lisbon conference he also said a return to frontline politics was unlikely, while proposing changes to public administration including Social Security and a potential new ministry. The comments have stirred debate inside the PSD and among policymakers, and could shape future immigration and social‑policy discussions.

Context & Explainers

Pedro Passos Coelho is a former Prime Minister of Portugal (2011–2015) and former leader of the centre-right PSD (Partido Social Democrata). His government steered Portugal through the 2011–2014 international bailout and its austerity programme. He remains an influential voice on the right, and his comments on alliances and leadership are closely watched by PSD voters.