Latest news and stories about governance in culture in Portugal for expats and residents.
António Barreto argues that the PSD, Chega, and PS are failing to recognize the damage their political conduct is inflicting on the nation and democratic freedom.
The article discusses the urgent need for regionalisation in Portugal, highlighting how recent severe weather events have exposed the country's vulnerabilities due to an excessively centralised governance model. It argues that the lack of administrative regions creates a governance void that hampers effective civil protection, resource management, and policy integration. The author advocates for an elected regional level to enhance accountability and transparency, emphasizing that decentralisation must be paired with robust information systems to ensure effective governance. The piece concludes that regionalisation is essential for adapting to climate change and improving democratic engagement.
This post-Easter Monday held a particular significance for me, marking the eve of my 50th birthday. Reflecting on this milestone, I observe a structural problem in Portugal and other democracies: the habit of indefinite tenure in positions of power. Whether in politics, business, or institutions, many individuals insist on remaining long after their cycles have ended, treating public service roles as personal property. This culture blocks new generations, stifles innovation, and normalizes the idea that leaving is a loss, rather than an act of responsibility. While experience and continuity are valuable, a healthy democracy requires the recognition that every tenure must have an end. True maturity lies in knowing when to step aside, ensuring that the country can continue to evolve by making space for new voices.
The PS will submit a bill this Saturday to amend the statutes of Lusa, inspired by the RTP model, which provides for the creation of an Independent General Council (CGI) responsible for choosing the agency's Board of Directors. The initiative had already been announced by the party's parliamentary leader, Eurico Brilhante Dias.
It is time for our political class to restore dignity to their word, honour the resources we have entrusted to them, and finally begin working in the fruitful silence that builds the future.
Cristiano Ronaldo had to leave Portugal, like so many other Portuguese before and after him. It is here that political discourse begins to reveal its fragility.
