Latest news and stories about labour law in government in Portugal for expats and residents.
Hugo Carneiro, a PSD deputy, argues that it is important for the labour package to be brought before Parliament.
Prime Minister Luís Montenegro stated that the government will not abandon its convictions regarding the proposed labour reform package, asserting that it has already made significant concessions. While the government maintains that the reforms are necessary for economic competitiveness, the UGT and other opposition parties continue to demand the withdrawal of the legislation.
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. 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. 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. 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.
The General Confederation of the Portuguese Workers (CGTP) has announced a general strike for June 3rd to protest the government's proposed labour reform package. While the CGTP secretary-general Tiago Oliveira described the reform as a major attack on workers, the General Union of Workers (UGT) has also expressed strong opposition to the government's core pillars of the proposal, though it is not currently joining the CGTP-led strike.
Update: UGT considers joining CGTP general strike
The UGT has indicated it may join the strike, though a final decision depends on the outcome of the next social concertation (Concertação Social) meeting scheduled for next Thursday. Meanwhile, the Portuguese Communist Party (Partido Comunista Português or PCP) has officially called for all workers to mobilize for the June 3rd action.
The General Confederation of the Portuguese Workers (CGTP – Confederação Geral dos Trabalhadores Portugueses) is Portugal’s largest trade-union confederation, grouping most unions in manufacturing, public services and many other sectors.
Founded clandestinely in 1970 as “Intersindical” under the dictatorship, it emerged publicly after the 1974 Carnation Revolution and was legalised in 1975. It has been central to virtually all major labour struggles since then, from defending collective bargaining and the 40‑hour week to leading general strikes against austerity and labour‑law rollbacks.
CGTP is historically close to the Portuguese Communist Party and has a class‑struggle, anti‑neoliberal profile, strongly critical of EU and government policies seen as undermining workers’ rights. It favours grassroots mobilisation and strikes over compromise, often refusing national social‑pact deals that the more centrist UGT is willing to sign.
In today’s Portugal, CGTP remains a key actor in wage bargaining, labour‑law debates and national protests; together with UGT it called the first joint general strike in years in December 2025, signalling its continuing capacity to organise mass action.
The General Union of Workers (UGT – União Geral de Trabalhadores) is one of Portugal’s two main national trade union confederations. Founded in Lisbon on 28 October 1978, it was created as a social‑democratic alternative to the more communist‑aligned CGTP after the 1974 Revolution, grouping unions close to the Socialist Party and moderate centre‑right currents.
UGT represents around 400,000 workers and is affiliated to the European Trade Union Confederation and International Trade Union Confederation, giving Portuguese labour a voice at EU and global level. Its principles stress union independence from the state, employers, churches and parties, internal democracy and active worker participation.
Historically, UGT’s hallmark has been “propositive” social dialogue: it is usually more willing than CGTP to sign tripartite agreements on wages, labour law and social policy with governments and employers, shaping minimum wage increases, working‑time rules and social protection reforms. This makes UGT a key centrist actor in Portugal’s industrial relations, often mediating between left and right while defending collective bargaining and incremental improvements to labour rights.
Social Concertation (Concertação Social) is Portugal's tripartite dialogue between the government, trade unions and employer associations to negotiate labour, social and economic policies. Its agreements often shape government proposals but are not binding, so if talks fail the government can still submit the labour-law revision to Parliament and will need to secure votes there, potentially relying on support from opposition parties such as Chega.
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.
Minister of State and Foreign Affairs Paulo Rangel confirmed that Portugal is not involved in the conflict involving Iran. Rangel emphasized that while the government views the Iranian regime as a threat, it does not support the ongoing military escalation.
Paulo Rangel is a Portuguese politician from the Social Democratic Party (Partido Social Democrata or PSD) who has been a prominent voice on defence and foreign‑policy issues and has served in the European Parliament. He appears in this story because he commented publicly on the controversy over Lajes Air Base being used to refuel US planes.
Prime Minister Luís Montenegro has reaffirmed his commitment to labour reform, stating that the country must move forward with the process. While the Socialist Party (Partido Socialista or PS) has urged the government to withdraw the bill, the Chega party has expressed willingness to negotiate, provided the government agrees to lower the retirement age.
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. 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. 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. 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.
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.
The UGT national secretariat unanimously rejected the latest version of the labour legislation revision proposal presented by the Government. We are following all the reactions here.
The General Union of Workers (União Geral de Trabalhadores or UGT) has unanimously rejected the government's latest labour reform proposal, leading to accusations of a 'sham negotiation' from the Socialist Party (Partido Socialista or PS). Prime Minister Luís Montenegro stated that six key issues, including outsourcing and the 'bank of hours' (banco de horas), remain unresolved and require further concessions. A meeting of the Social Concertation (Concertação Social) is scheduled for May 7th to attempt to finalize the agreement.
Update: Government maintains May 7th deadline for labour reform
The Minister of Labour has confirmed that the government will not present new proposals despite the UGT's rejection, insisting that the current negotiation process must conclude by the May 7th deadline.
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. 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. 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. 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.
The General Union of Workers (UGT – União Geral de Trabalhadores) is one of Portugal’s two main national trade union confederations. Founded in Lisbon on 28 October 1978, it was created as a social‑democratic alternative to the more communist‑aligned CGTP after the 1974 Revolution, grouping unions close to the Socialist Party and moderate centre‑right currents.
UGT represents around 400,000 workers and is affiliated to the European Trade Union Confederation and International Trade Union Confederation, giving Portuguese labour a voice at EU and global level. Its principles stress union independence from the state, employers, churches and parties, internal democracy and active worker participation.
Historically, UGT’s hallmark has been “propositive” social dialogue: it is usually more willing than CGTP to sign tripartite agreements on wages, labour law and social policy with governments and employers, shaping minimum wage increases, working‑time rules and social protection reforms. This makes UGT a key centrist actor in Portugal’s industrial relations, often mediating between left and right while defending collective bargaining and incremental improvements to labour rights.
Social Concertation (Concertação Social) is Portugal's tripartite dialogue between the government, trade unions and employer associations to negotiate labour, social and economic policies. Its agreements often shape government proposals but are not binding, so if talks fail the government can still submit the labour-law revision to Parliament and will need to secure votes there, potentially relying on support from opposition parties such as Chega.
The UGT meets today to analyse and vote on the final proposal for amendments to labour legislation, in the aftermath of hearings with the President of the Republic and at a time when the document already has the 'green light' from employers.
The government and unions representing workers at Museums and Monuments of Portugal (Museus e Monumentos de Portugal or MMP) have signed an agreement to increase compensation for holiday work. Staff will now receive a fixed supplement of 60 euros for working on public holidays. This deal aims to address long-standing concerns regarding compensation for availability during these periods.
Socialist Party (Partido Socialista or PS) Secretary-General José Luís Carneiro expressed skepticism that the General Workers' Union (União Geral de Trabalhadores or UGT) will approve the government's latest labour law proposal. While Prime Minister Luís Montenegro remains hopeful for a tripartite agreement, union officials and opposition leaders like José Manuel Pureza of the Left Bloc (Bloco de Esquerda or BE) have criticized the government's approach. The UGT is scheduled to finalize its position on the draft legislation this Thursday.
Update: Labour reform negotiations continue as UGT remains hesitant
President of the Republic Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa met with social partners this Wednesday to discuss the labour law amendments, reiterating his desire for constructive dialogue. Despite this, the UGT leadership remains uncomfortable with the current proposal, while employer confederations have expressed frustration with the slow pace of negotiations.
José Luís Carneiro is a Portuguese politician and member of the Socialist Party (Partido Socialista or PS). He served as the Minister of Internal Administration (Ministro da Administração Interna) from 2022 to 2024 and currently holds a seat in the Assembly of the Republic (Assembleia da República).
The General Union of Workers (UGT – União Geral de Trabalhadores) is one of Portugal’s two main national trade union confederations. Founded in Lisbon on 28 October 1978, it was created as a social‑democratic alternative to the more communist‑aligned CGTP after the 1974 Revolution, grouping unions close to the Socialist Party and moderate centre‑right currents.
UGT represents around 400,000 workers and is affiliated to the European Trade Union Confederation and International Trade Union Confederation, giving Portuguese labour a voice at EU and global level. Its principles stress union independence from the state, employers, churches and parties, internal democracy and active worker participation.
Historically, UGT’s hallmark has been “propositive” social dialogue: it is usually more willing than CGTP to sign tripartite agreements on wages, labour law and social policy with governments and employers, shaping minimum wage increases, working‑time rules and social protection reforms. This makes UGT a key centrist actor in Portugal’s industrial relations, often mediating between left and right while defending collective bargaining and incremental improvements to labour rights.
The Left Bloc (Bloco de Esquerda, BE) is a Portuguese left-wing party founded in 1999 as a coalition of far-left movements (UDP, PSR, and Política XXI). It positioned itself as a modern, progressive alternative to the traditional left, attracting younger urban voters with campaigns on social justice, LGBTQ+ rights, drug policy reform, housing, and labor protections.
The party's peak influence came during the 2015–2019 Geringonça ("contraption") government, when it supported António Costa's PS minority administration alongside the PCP. This arrangement reversed austerity measures and presided over economic recovery, giving BE significant policy leverage.
Since then, the party has suffered a sharp electoral decline — from 19 seats in 2015 to just 1 seat in the May 2025 election, its worst result in history. Leader Mariana Mortágua resigned in October 2025 after failing to reverse the slide. The party is currently undergoing a leadership contest and internal debate about its future direction, squeezed between the PS on one side and Livre on the other.
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.
The National Secretariat of the General Workers' Union (União Geral de Trabalhadores or UGT) is meeting in Lisbon to finalize its position on the government's latest labour code proposal. Several key union officials have already announced their intention to vote against the draft, arguing that negotiations have failed to produce significant progress. Meanwhile, President of the Republic António José Seguro has faced criticism for his attempts to facilitate dialogue between the government and social partners.
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.
The General Union of Workers (UGT – União Geral de Trabalhadores) is one of Portugal’s two main national trade union confederations. Founded in Lisbon on 28 October 1978, it was created as a social‑democratic alternative to the more communist‑aligned CGTP after the 1974 Revolution, grouping unions close to the Socialist Party and moderate centre‑right currents.
UGT represents around 400,000 workers and is affiliated to the European Trade Union Confederation and International Trade Union Confederation, giving Portuguese labour a voice at EU and global level. Its principles stress union independence from the state, employers, churches and parties, internal democracy and active worker participation.
Historically, UGT’s hallmark has been “propositive” social dialogue: it is usually more willing than CGTP to sign tripartite agreements on wages, labour law and social policy with governments and employers, shaping minimum wage increases, working‑time rules and social protection reforms. This makes UGT a key centrist actor in Portugal’s industrial relations, often mediating between left and right while defending collective bargaining and incremental improvements to labour rights.
Socialist Party (Partido Socialista or PS) Secretary-General José Luís Carneiro has publicly rejected the government's proposed labour law reforms. During the party's 53rd anniversary meeting, Carneiro described the package as an offence to the dignity of workers and reaffirmed that the PS will vote against the measures in the Assembly of the Republic (Assembleia da República).
Socialist Party (PS)
Portugal's other traditional major party suffered a historic collapse in the 2025 election, dropping from 78 to 58 seats and falling to third place for the first time in democratic history. The party was led by Pedro Nuno Santos from January 2024 until his resignation following the May 2025 defeat. José Luís Carneiro, a 53-year-old former Minister of Internal Administration known for his moderate positioning within the party, was elected unopposed as the new Secretary-General with 95% of votes in June 2025. The Socialist Party governed Portugal from 2015 to 2024, including an absolute majority from 2022 to 2024 under António Costa, who resigned in November 2023 amid a corruption investigation. The PS previously led the innovative "Geringonça" (contraption) coalition government from 2015-2019, a minority government supported by the Left Bloc and Portuguese Communist Party that reversed austerity measures and presided over economic recovery.
José Luís Carneiro is a Portuguese politician and member of the Socialist Party (Partido Socialista or PS). He served as the Minister of Internal Administration (Ministro da Administração Interna) from 2022 to 2024 and currently holds a seat in the Assembly of the Republic (Assembleia da República).
President of the Republic António José Seguro will hold individual meetings with social partners at the Belém Palace this Wednesday, April 22nd. The hearings follow the conclusion of negotiations regarding proposed changes to labour law. The President aims to facilitate dialogue between unions and employer confederations, including the General Confederation of the Portuguese Workers (Confederação Geral dos Trabalhadores Portugueses or CGTP) and the General Workers' Union (União Geral de Trabalhadores or UGT).
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.
The General Confederation of the Portuguese Workers (CGTP – Confederação Geral dos Trabalhadores Portugueses) is Portugal’s largest trade-union confederation, grouping most unions in manufacturing, public services and many other sectors.
Founded clandestinely in 1970 as “Intersindical” under the dictatorship, it emerged publicly after the 1974 Carnation Revolution and was legalised in 1975. It has been central to virtually all major labour struggles since then, from defending collective bargaining and the 40‑hour week to leading general strikes against austerity and labour‑law rollbacks.
CGTP is historically close to the Portuguese Communist Party and has a class‑struggle, anti‑neoliberal profile, strongly critical of EU and government policies seen as undermining workers’ rights. It favours grassroots mobilisation and strikes over compromise, often refusing national social‑pact deals that the more centrist UGT is willing to sign.
In today’s Portugal, CGTP remains a key actor in wage bargaining, labour‑law debates and national protests; together with UGT it called the first joint general strike in years in December 2025, signalling its continuing capacity to organise mass action.
The General Union of Workers (UGT – União Geral de Trabalhadores) is one of Portugal’s two main national trade union confederations. Founded in Lisbon on 28 October 1978, it was created as a social‑democratic alternative to the more communist‑aligned CGTP after the 1974 Revolution, grouping unions close to the Socialist Party and moderate centre‑right currents.
UGT represents around 400,000 workers and is affiliated to the European Trade Union Confederation and International Trade Union Confederation, giving Portuguese labour a voice at EU and global level. Its principles stress union independence from the state, employers, churches and parties, internal democracy and active worker participation.
Historically, UGT’s hallmark has been “propositive” social dialogue: it is usually more willing than CGTP to sign tripartite agreements on wages, labour law and social policy with governments and employers, shaping minimum wage increases, working‑time rules and social protection reforms. This makes UGT a key centrist actor in Portugal’s industrial relations, often mediating between left and right while defending collective bargaining and incremental improvements to labour rights.
Palma Ramalho stated that it is now up to the Government and the other partners to wait calmly for the UGT's final position.
The Council of Ministers has approved a national strategy for 2026 and 2027 to reduce workplace accidents, which remain above the European average. In 2025, Portugal recorded over 184,000 workplace accidents, including 136 fatalities. The plan focuses on integrating safety training into education, providing technical support to small and medium-sized enterprises, and increasing digital monitoring.
Thousands of demonstrators marched in Lisbon on Friday to protest against the government's proposed labour package, with smaller actions also reported in Funchal. Organized by the General Confederation of Portuguese Workers (Confederação Geral dos Trabalhadores Portugueses or CGTP), the protest took place as the government seeks to conclude negotiations with social partners. Minister of Labour Maria do Rosário Palma Ramalho stated that only a few issues remain before a final agreement can be reached.
The General Confederation of the Portuguese Workers (CGTP – Confederação Geral dos Trabalhadores Portugueses) is Portugal’s largest trade-union confederation, grouping most unions in manufacturing, public services and many other sectors.
Founded clandestinely in 1970 as “Intersindical” under the dictatorship, it emerged publicly after the 1974 Carnation Revolution and was legalised in 1975. It has been central to virtually all major labour struggles since then, from defending collective bargaining and the 40‑hour week to leading general strikes against austerity and labour‑law rollbacks.
CGTP is historically close to the Portuguese Communist Party and has a class‑struggle, anti‑neoliberal profile, strongly critical of EU and government policies seen as undermining workers’ rights. It favours grassroots mobilisation and strikes over compromise, often refusing national social‑pact deals that the more centrist UGT is willing to sign.
In today’s Portugal, CGTP remains a key actor in wage bargaining, labour‑law debates and national protests; together with UGT it called the first joint general strike in years in December 2025, signalling its continuing capacity to organise mass action.
The Independent Doctors' Union (Sindicato Independente dos Médicos or SIM) has reached an agreement with the Ministry of Defence to unblock the career progression of civilian doctors within the Armed Forces. This deal resolves a deadlock that has persisted for over three decades. The Minister of Defence stated that the government is now providing a long-overdue response to the needs of health professionals at the Armed Forces Hospital.
The Independent Doctors' Union (Sindicato Independente dos Médicos or SIM) is a labor organization that represents physicians in Portugal. It frequently negotiates with the government regarding working conditions, salary structures, and public health policy within the national health service.
The government has warned that negotiations regarding the Trabalho XXI labour law reform will conclude in the coming days, regardless of whether an agreement is reached with social partners. While the Minister of Labour expressed hope for a consensus, trade union centres remain divided, with the CGTP denouncing the process as a simulation after being excluded from preliminary meetings. Meanwhile, the Registry and Notary Workers' Union has granted a final ten-day extension for talks before considering strike action.
Update: Labour law negotiations set for final Friday meeting
The government has presented a final draft of the labour reform to the social concertation committee, with a new meeting scheduled for Friday to discuss minor adjustments. While the Minister of Labour claims conditions are met to conclude the process, the General Workers' Union (União Geral de Trabalhadores or UGT) maintains that significant issues, including the bank of hours (banco de horas) and continuous working day (jornada contínua), remain unresolved.
The General Confederation of the Portuguese Workers (CGTP – Confederação Geral dos Trabalhadores Portugueses) is Portugal’s largest trade-union confederation, grouping most unions in manufacturing, public services and many other sectors.
Founded clandestinely in 1970 as “Intersindical” under the dictatorship, it emerged publicly after the 1974 Carnation Revolution and was legalised in 1975. It has been central to virtually all major labour struggles since then, from defending collective bargaining and the 40‑hour week to leading general strikes against austerity and labour‑law rollbacks.
CGTP is historically close to the Portuguese Communist Party and has a class‑struggle, anti‑neoliberal profile, strongly critical of EU and government policies seen as undermining workers’ rights. It favours grassroots mobilisation and strikes over compromise, often refusing national social‑pact deals that the more centrist UGT is willing to sign.
In today’s Portugal, CGTP remains a key actor in wage bargaining, labour‑law debates and national protests; together with UGT it called the first joint general strike in years in December 2025, signalling its continuing capacity to organise mass action.
The General Union of Workers (UGT – União Geral de Trabalhadores) is one of Portugal’s two main national trade union confederations. Founded in Lisbon on 28 October 1978, it was created as a social‑democratic alternative to the more communist‑aligned CGTP after the 1974 Revolution, grouping unions close to the Socialist Party and moderate centre‑right currents.
UGT represents around 400,000 workers and is affiliated to the European Trade Union Confederation and International Trade Union Confederation, giving Portuguese labour a voice at EU and global level. Its principles stress union independence from the state, employers, churches and parties, internal democracy and active worker participation.
Historically, UGT’s hallmark has been “propositive” social dialogue: it is usually more willing than CGTP to sign tripartite agreements on wages, labour law and social policy with governments and employers, shaping minimum wage increases, working‑time rules and social protection reforms. This makes UGT a key centrist actor in Portugal’s industrial relations, often mediating between left and right while defending collective bargaining and incremental improvements to labour rights.
A banked hours scheme (banco de horas) is a flexible working time arrangement under Portuguese labor law that allows employees to accumulate overtime hours and use them later as time off, rather than receiving immediate overtime pay.
Under the Portuguese Labour Code, banked hours can be established through collective agreements or, in some cases, individual agreements. The scheme allows employers to vary working hours based on demand — requiring longer hours during peak periods and compensating with shorter hours or days off later.
Banked hours schemes are a frequent topic in labor reform negotiations, with unions (particularly CGTP) pushing for tighter limits and greater worker protections, while employers argue for more flexibility. Proposed reforms have included extending eligibility to parents of young children and adjusting the cap on banked hours.
Chega leader André Ventura has stated that his party may propose changes to labour law in Parliament, even if the government reaches an agreement with the General Union of Workers (União Geral de Trabalhadores or UGT). While the Social Democratic Party (Partido Social Democrata or PSD) insists on the importance of social dialogue, Chega maintains that it will seek to amend the legislation once it reaches the Assembly of the Republic.
Chega ("Enough") is a Portuguese far-right populist party founded in 2019 by André Ventura. It positions itself as an anti-establishment movement against what it calls a "rotten and corrupt system" of PS-PSD dominance. The party surged from 1.3% in 2019 to 22.8% in May 2025, becoming parliament's second-largest force with 60 seats. Chega's core platform emphasizes strict immigration control—ending automatic CPLP residency, deporting non-independent immigrants, implementing job-market quotas, and requiring five-year social security contributions before benefit access. It advocates radical constitutional reform, including reducing parliament to 100 members, abolishing the prime minister position for a presidential system, and dismantling public healthcare. Law-and-order policies include life imprisonment and chemical castration proposals.
The party is defined by inflammatory anti-Romani rhetoric, with Ventura convicted multiple times for discrimination. Chega maintains international alignments with European far-right figures including Marine Le Pen, Santiago Abascal, and Matteo Salvini. Mainstream Portuguese parties, including Prime Minister Luís Montenegro's government, have imposed a cordon sanitaire, refusing coalition with Chega despite its parliamentary strength.
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.
Capital transfers for cultural projects linked to the golden visa (autorização de residência para atividade de investimento) program reached 46.8 million euros in 2025, a 298% increase over the previous year. Data from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports shows that US citizens are the most frequent users of this investment route, followed by Chinese and Indian nationals.
The Golden Visa (Autorização de Residência para Investimento, ARI) is Portugal's residence-by-investment program, created in 2012, granting non-EU nationals a residency permit in exchange for qualifying investments.
Since October 2023, direct residential real estate purchases no longer qualify — a reform aimed at easing housing market pressure. Eligible investment routes now include capital transfers (€500,000+), investment fund subscriptions, job creation, and contributions to scientific research or cultural heritage. Minimum amounts and conditions vary by category.
A Golden Visa provides Schengen travel rights, requires minimal physical presence in Portugal (7 days per year), and offers a pathway to permanent residency after five years and citizenship after six. The program has been politically controversial, with ongoing debate about its impact on housing prices and its value as an economic stimulus.
Applicants must deal with AIMA for residency processing, which has experienced significant backlogs.
Negotiations regarding the government's proposed labour reform have reached an impasse, with the General Workers' Union (União Geral de Trabalhadores or UGT) rejecting the current framework. Labour Minister Rosário da Palma Ramalho has concluded technical meetings ahead of a crucial Social Consultation (Concertação Social) meeting scheduled for this Thursday. President António José Seguro has indicated he will evaluate the final decree carefully, leaving the possibility of a presidential veto open.
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.
Four employers' confederations have accused the General Workers' Union (União Geral de Trabalhadores or UGT) of acting in bad faith during labour law negotiations. The confederations claim the union rejected a proposal based on an outdated version of the text, effectively breaking consensus. The employers expressed profound disappointment, stating that the UGT's actions have compromised the negotiation process.
Update: Labour law negotiations move to Social Concertation
Minister of Labour Maria do Rosário Palma Ramalho has summoned the Standing Committee for Social Dialogue (Comissão Permanente da Concertação Social or CPCS) for a meeting this Thursday, April 16. While the minister stated that negotiations are in the final stretch, she warned that if an agreement is not reached, the process will proceed to Parliament.
The General Union of Workers (UGT – União Geral de Trabalhadores) is one of Portugal’s two main national trade union confederations. Founded in Lisbon on 28 October 1978, it was created as a social‑democratic alternative to the more communist‑aligned CGTP after the 1974 Revolution, grouping unions close to the Socialist Party and moderate centre‑right currents.
UGT represents around 400,000 workers and is affiliated to the European Trade Union Confederation and International Trade Union Confederation, giving Portuguese labour a voice at EU and global level. Its principles stress union independence from the state, employers, churches and parties, internal democracy and active worker participation.
Historically, UGT’s hallmark has been “propositive” social dialogue: it is usually more willing than CGTP to sign tripartite agreements on wages, labour law and social policy with governments and employers, shaping minimum wage increases, working‑time rules and social protection reforms. This makes UGT a key centrist actor in Portugal’s industrial relations, often mediating between left and right while defending collective bargaining and incremental improvements to labour rights.
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.
The Standing Committee for Social Dialogue (Comissão Permanente de Concertação Social or CPCS) is a forum where the government, trade unions, and employer associations negotiate labor policies and social issues. It serves as a primary mechanism for reaching national agreements on topics like minimum wage adjustments and labor law reforms.
Chega leader André Ventura stated this Saturday that he is open to reaching a consensus with the government on labour law reform, provided certain conditions are met. Ventura urged the executive to stop playing the victim, while the Communist Party (Partido Comunista Português or PCP) criticized Chega for imposing conditions on the process.
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.
Chega ("Enough") is a Portuguese far-right populist party founded in 2019 by André Ventura. It positions itself as an anti-establishment movement against what it calls a "rotten and corrupt system" of PS-PSD dominance. The party surged from 1.3% in 2019 to 22.8% in May 2025, becoming parliament's second-largest force with 60 seats. Chega's core platform emphasizes strict immigration control—ending automatic CPLP residency, deporting non-independent immigrants, implementing job-market quotas, and requiring five-year social security contributions before benefit access. It advocates radical constitutional reform, including reducing parliament to 100 members, abolishing the prime minister position for a presidential system, and dismantling public healthcare. Law-and-order policies include life imprisonment and chemical castration proposals.
The party is defined by inflammatory anti-Romani rhetoric, with Ventura convicted multiple times for discrimination. Chega maintains international alignments with European far-right figures including Marine Le Pen, Santiago Abascal, and Matteo Salvini. Mainstream Portuguese parties, including Prime Minister Luís Montenegro's government, have imposed a cordon sanitaire, refusing coalition with Chega despite its parliamentary strength.
The government has summoned the General Workers' Union (União Geral de Trabalhadores or UGT) and four business confederations to a meeting this Monday, April 13, to continue negotiations on labour law amendments. This follows the UGT's recent rejection of the government's latest proposal, with President António José Seguro also announcing plans to meet with social partners soon to discuss the reform process.
The General Union of Workers (UGT – União Geral de Trabalhadores) is one of Portugal’s two main national trade union confederations. Founded in Lisbon on 28 October 1978, it was created as a social‑democratic alternative to the more communist‑aligned CGTP after the 1974 Revolution, grouping unions close to the Socialist Party and moderate centre‑right currents.
UGT represents around 400,000 workers and is affiliated to the European Trade Union Confederation and International Trade Union Confederation, giving Portuguese labour a voice at EU and global level. Its principles stress union independence from the state, employers, churches and parties, internal democracy and active worker participation.
Historically, UGT’s hallmark has been “propositive” social dialogue: it is usually more willing than CGTP to sign tripartite agreements on wages, labour law and social policy with governments and employers, shaping minimum wage increases, working‑time rules and social protection reforms. This makes UGT a key centrist actor in Portugal’s industrial relations, often mediating between left and right while defending collective bargaining and incremental improvements to labour rights.
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.
André Ventura, leader of the Chega party, announced five conditions for supporting the government's proposed labour law revisions, including protections against discretionary dismissals and improved parental leave. While the government maintains an open door for negotiations following the rejection of its proposal by the General Workers' Union (União Geral de Trabalhadores or UGT), the Socialist Party (Partido Socialista or PS) has ruled out collaborating on the reform. The government emphasized it will pursue negotiations on a case-by-case basis rather than relying on preferred partners.
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.
The General Union of Workers (UGT – União Geral de Trabalhadores) is one of Portugal’s two main national trade union confederations. Founded in Lisbon on 28 October 1978, it was created as a social‑democratic alternative to the more communist‑aligned CGTP after the 1974 Revolution, grouping unions close to the Socialist Party and moderate centre‑right currents.
UGT represents around 400,000 workers and is affiliated to the European Trade Union Confederation and International Trade Union Confederation, giving Portuguese labour a voice at EU and global level. Its principles stress union independence from the state, employers, churches and parties, internal democracy and active worker participation.
Historically, UGT’s hallmark has been “propositive” social dialogue: it is usually more willing than CGTP to sign tripartite agreements on wages, labour law and social policy with governments and employers, shaping minimum wage increases, working‑time rules and social protection reforms. This makes UGT a key centrist actor in Portugal’s industrial relations, often mediating between left and right while defending collective bargaining and incremental improvements to labour rights.
Socialist Party (PS)
Portugal's other traditional major party suffered a historic collapse in the 2025 election, dropping from 78 to 58 seats and falling to third place for the first time in democratic history. The party was led by Pedro Nuno Santos from January 2024 until his resignation following the May 2025 defeat. José Luís Carneiro, a 53-year-old former Minister of Internal Administration known for his moderate positioning within the party, was elected unopposed as the new Secretary-General with 95% of votes in June 2025. The Socialist Party governed Portugal from 2015 to 2024, including an absolute majority from 2022 to 2024 under António Costa, who resigned in November 2023 amid a corruption investigation. The PS previously led the innovative "Geringonça" (contraption) coalition government from 2015-2019, a minority government supported by the Left Bloc and Portuguese Communist Party that reversed austerity measures and presided over economic recovery.
Prime Minister Luís Montenegro has urged the General Workers' Union (União Geral de Trabalhadores or UGT) to finalize an agreement on proposed labour law revisions, calling a failure to act inexcusable. The UGT national secretariat is scheduled to vote this Thursday on whether to approve the government's latest proposal. Montenegro argues that the current framework offers a unique opportunity to improve wages and increase company competitiveness.
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. 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. 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. 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.
The General Union of Workers (UGT – União Geral de Trabalhadores) is one of Portugal’s two main national trade union confederations. Founded in Lisbon on 28 October 1978, it was created as a social‑democratic alternative to the more communist‑aligned CGTP after the 1974 Revolution, grouping unions close to the Socialist Party and moderate centre‑right currents.
UGT represents around 400,000 workers and is affiliated to the European Trade Union Confederation and International Trade Union Confederation, giving Portuguese labour a voice at EU and global level. Its principles stress union independence from the state, employers, churches and parties, internal democracy and active worker participation.
Historically, UGT’s hallmark has been “propositive” social dialogue: it is usually more willing than CGTP to sign tripartite agreements on wages, labour law and social policy with governments and employers, shaping minimum wage increases, working‑time rules and social protection reforms. This makes UGT a key centrist actor in Portugal’s industrial relations, often mediating between left and right while defending collective bargaining and incremental improvements to labour rights.
The Minister of Labour, Solidarity and Social Security, Rosário Palma Ramalho, announced that negotiations regarding labour law reforms have reached a constructive level after eight months of discussions. The government is now waiting for the General Union of Workers (União Geral de Trabalhadores or UGT) and business confederations to consult their internal bodies before finalizing the proposal.
The General Union of Workers (UGT – União Geral de Trabalhadores) is one of Portugal’s two main national trade union confederations. Founded in Lisbon on 28 October 1978, it was created as a social‑democratic alternative to the more communist‑aligned CGTP after the 1974 Revolution, grouping unions close to the Socialist Party and moderate centre‑right currents.
UGT represents around 400,000 workers and is affiliated to the European Trade Union Confederation and International Trade Union Confederation, giving Portuguese labour a voice at EU and global level. Its principles stress union independence from the state, employers, churches and parties, internal democracy and active worker participation.
Historically, UGT’s hallmark has been “propositive” social dialogue: it is usually more willing than CGTP to sign tripartite agreements on wages, labour law and social policy with governments and employers, shaping minimum wage increases, working‑time rules and social protection reforms. This makes UGT a key centrist actor in Portugal’s industrial relations, often mediating between left and right while defending collective bargaining and incremental improvements to labour rights.
Minister of Labour Maria do Rosário Palma Ramalho is meeting this Monday with business confederations and the General Workers' Union (União Geral de Trabalhadores or UGT) to discuss labour law reforms. This marks the 53rd meeting between the government and social partners as they attempt to reach an agreement on contract and dismissal regulations. The UGT is expected to analyze the proposed changes during its upcoming national secretariat meeting.
The General Union of Workers (UGT – União Geral de Trabalhadores) is one of Portugal’s two main national trade union confederations. Founded in Lisbon on 28 October 1978, it was created as a social‑democratic alternative to the more communist‑aligned CGTP after the 1974 Revolution, grouping unions close to the Socialist Party and moderate centre‑right currents.
UGT represents around 400,000 workers and is affiliated to the European Trade Union Confederation and International Trade Union Confederation, giving Portuguese labour a voice at EU and global level. Its principles stress union independence from the state, employers, churches and parties, internal democracy and active worker participation.
Historically, UGT’s hallmark has been “propositive” social dialogue: it is usually more willing than CGTP to sign tripartite agreements on wages, labour law and social policy with governments and employers, shaping minimum wage increases, working‑time rules and social protection reforms. This makes UGT a key centrist actor in Portugal’s industrial relations, often mediating between left and right while defending collective bargaining and incremental improvements to labour rights.
The Permanent Coordinating Commission (CCP), representing major security force unions including the Public Security Police (Polícia de Segurança Pública or PSP) and the National Republican Guard (Guarda Nacional Republicana or GNR), has announced a national protest for April 16. The demonstration will take place in front of the Prime Minister's residence in Lisbon to oppose legislative changes since 2005 that have reduced pension values for security personnel.
The PSP (Polícia de Segurança Pública) is Portugal's national civilian police force, founded in 1867. Responsible for defending Republican democracy and safeguarding internal security and citizens' rights, the PSP polices major cities—Lisbon, Porto, Faro—and large urban areas, covering only 4% of Portugal's territory but roughly half the population. Led by a National Director under the Ministry of Internal Affairs, its approximately 21,500 officers handle preventive policing, crime investigation, public order, airport security, diplomatic protection, private security regulation, firearms licensing, and border control (since 2023).
PSP vs. GNR: The PSP is civilian with police-focused training and urban jurisdiction, while the GNR (Guarda Nacional Republicana) is military (gendarmerie) with military training, covering 96% of Portugal's rural and suburban territory. Both share core public safety missions but differ fundamentally in nature, training, and geographic responsibility.
The GNR (Guarda Nacional Republicana) is Portugal's national gendarmerie—a military police force founded in 1911, with origins dating to 1801. With over 22,600 personnel, GNR patrols 94-96% of Portuguese territory, covering rural areas, medium towns, and highways. Members are military personnel subject to military law, responsible for public order, customs, coastal control, environmental protection (SEPNA), firefighting/rescue (GIPS), border control, and ceremonial guards. GNR vs. PSP: The PSP (Polícia de Segurança Pública) is Portugal's civilian police force, covering major cities (Lisbon, Porto, Faro) and large urban areas—only 4% of territory but roughly half the population. PSP handles airport security, diplomatic protection, and private security regulation. Both share core missions (public order, crime prevention), but differ in nature: GNR is military with military training; PSP is civilian with police-focused training.
President António José Seguro has enacted legislation ensuring 100% salary payment for workers under the simplified lay-off scheme (regime de lay-off simplificado). This support measure was created in response to recent storm damage, though it faced opposition from the PSD, IL, and CDS-PP during the parliamentary vote. The new rules aim to protect employee income during periods of temporary business suspension.
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.
President António José Seguro expressed hope for a balanced agreement on labour legislation (legislação laboral) between the government and social partners. Speaking in Santarém, the President also advocated for the modernization of the Armed Forces (Forças Armadas) to meet international commitments, provided it does not compromise social welfare spending. Workers should note that the government has proposed extending the duration of certain employment contracts as part of the negotiations.
Update: Protests and political opposition mount against new labour package
Hundreds of protesters, led by the Interjovem wing of the CGTP union, marched in Lisbon to oppose the government's proposed labour changes. Former Minister of Labour Ana Mendes Godinho also called for the Socialist Party (Partido Socialista or PS) to be uncompromising against the package, which she described as an attack on workers.
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.
A banked hours scheme (banco de horas) is a flexible working time arrangement under Portuguese labor law that allows employees to accumulate overtime hours and use them later as time off, rather than receiving immediate overtime pay.
Under the Portuguese Labour Code, banked hours can be established through collective agreements or, in some cases, individual agreements. The scheme allows employers to vary working hours based on demand — requiring longer hours during peak periods and compensating with shorter hours or days off later.
Banked hours schemes are a frequent topic in labor reform negotiations, with unions (particularly CGTP) pushing for tighter limits and greater worker protections, while employers argue for more flexibility. Proposed reforms have included extending eligibility to parents of young children and adjusting the cap on banked hours.
Socialist Party (PS)
Portugal's other traditional major party suffered a historic collapse in the 2025 election, dropping from 78 to 58 seats and falling to third place for the first time in democratic history. The party was led by Pedro Nuno Santos from January 2024 until his resignation following the May 2025 defeat. José Luís Carneiro, a 53-year-old former Minister of Internal Administration known for his moderate positioning within the party, was elected unopposed as the new Secretary-General with 95% of votes in June 2025. The Socialist Party governed Portugal from 2015 to 2024, including an absolute majority from 2022 to 2024 under António Costa, who resigned in November 2023 amid a corruption investigation. The PS previously led the innovative "Geringonça" (contraption) coalition government from 2015-2019, a minority government supported by the Left Bloc and Portuguese Communist Party that reversed austerity measures and presided over economic recovery.
The government has withdrawn a proposal to increase mandatory annual leave (férias) from 22 to 25 days following negotiations with social partners. The revised labor law reform also maintains current rules that exclude automatic reinstatement for workers after unfair dismissals, a decision criticized by the General Confederation of Portuguese Workers (União Geral de Trabalhadores or UGT). Employees should note that the standard holiday entitlement will remain at the current legal minimum for the foreseeable future.
The General Union of Workers (UGT – União Geral de Trabalhadores) is one of Portugal’s two main national trade union confederations. Founded in Lisbon on 28 October 1978, it was created as a social‑democratic alternative to the more communist‑aligned CGTP after the 1974 Revolution, grouping unions close to the Socialist Party and moderate centre‑right currents.
UGT represents around 400,000 workers and is affiliated to the European Trade Union Confederation and International Trade Union Confederation, giving Portuguese labour a voice at EU and global level. Its principles stress union independence from the state, employers, churches and parties, internal democracy and active worker participation.
Historically, UGT’s hallmark has been “propositive” social dialogue: it is usually more willing than CGTP to sign tripartite agreements on wages, labour law and social policy with governments and employers, shaping minimum wage increases, working‑time rules and social protection reforms. This makes UGT a key centrist actor in Portugal’s industrial relations, often mediating between left and right while defending collective bargaining and incremental improvements to labour rights.
Negotiations between the government, the General Workers' Union (União Geral de Trabalhadores or UGT), and employers' associations have ended without an agreement on a new labour package. Despite 52 meetings, parties remain divided on key issues, though some participants suggest there is still room for a deal. The reforms are intended to update employment laws and working conditions across the country. Workers should note that current labour regulations remain in place while discussions continue.
Update: UGT awaits final government proposal before April decision
The UGT is waiting for a final written proposal from the government before its leadership meets on April 9 to decide on the labour package. While the General Confederation of Portuguese Workers (Confederação Geral dos Trabalhadores Portugueses or CGTP) was excluded from the latest meeting, employers' associations have signaled support for long-term salary increases. Negotiators are aiming for a consensus on the Labour Code (Código do Trabalho) shortly after Easter.
The General Union of Workers (UGT – União Geral de Trabalhadores) is one of Portugal’s two main national trade union confederations. Founded in Lisbon on 28 October 1978, it was created as a social‑democratic alternative to the more communist‑aligned CGTP after the 1974 Revolution, grouping unions close to the Socialist Party and moderate centre‑right currents.
UGT represents around 400,000 workers and is affiliated to the European Trade Union Confederation and International Trade Union Confederation, giving Portuguese labour a voice at EU and global level. Its principles stress union independence from the state, employers, churches and parties, internal democracy and active worker participation.
Historically, UGT’s hallmark has been “propositive” social dialogue: it is usually more willing than CGTP to sign tripartite agreements on wages, labour law and social policy with governments and employers, shaping minimum wage increases, working‑time rules and social protection reforms. This makes UGT a key centrist actor in Portugal’s industrial relations, often mediating between left and right while defending collective bargaining and incremental improvements to labour rights.
CGTP (Confederação Geral dos Trabalhadores Portugueses – Intersindical Nacional) regularly publishes studies and proposals on labor market conditions, wages, working time, and employment rights. These reports are used to support the union confederation's negotiating positions with the government and employers.
CGTP studies typically cover topics such as minimum wage adequacy, working hours reform, collective bargaining trends, social security sustainability, and the impact of proposed labor law changes on workers. The confederation uses this research to advocate for positions in tripartite social dialogue (Concertação Social) alongside the UGT union confederation and employer groups.
These publications are significant because they often shape public debate ahead of labor reforms and can influence the pace and direction of legislative changes.
The National Federation of Teachers (Federação Nacional dos Professores or Fenprof) has announced a national demonstration for May 16 to protest the government's revision of the teaching career statute (Estatuto da Carreira Docente). The union also warned of potential strikes during the upcoming third school term if negotiations regarding working hours and job security do not improve. Parents and students should note that Fenprof will also join a general protest organized by the General Confederation of Portuguese Workers (Confederação Geral dos Trabalhadores Portugueses or CGTP) in April.
Fenprof is the National Federation of Teachers (Federação Nacional dos Professores), the main public‑school teachers' union in Portugal that represents teachers in pay, working conditions and education reforms. Its criticism matters because Fenprof can organize strikes and mobilise teachers, which directly affects school operations and the implementation of government changes — something families and expat educators should monitor.
CGTP (Confederação Geral dos Trabalhadores Portugueses – Intersindical Nacional) regularly publishes studies and proposals on labor market conditions, wages, working time, and employment rights. These reports are used to support the union confederation's negotiating positions with the government and employers.
CGTP studies typically cover topics such as minimum wage adequacy, working hours reform, collective bargaining trends, social security sustainability, and the impact of proposed labor law changes on workers. The confederation uses this research to advocate for positions in tripartite social dialogue (Concertação Social) alongside the UGT union confederation and employer groups.
These publications are significant because they often shape public debate ahead of labor reforms and can influence the pace and direction of legislative changes.
A general public sector strike (greve da função pública) scheduled for Monday, March 23, is expected to cause significant disruptions across Portugal. The Federation of Independent Unions of Public Administration (Federação Nacional de Sindicatos Independentes da Administração Pública or Fesinap) warns that healthcare and education will be heavily affected. Those with pending immigration or citizenship processes at the Agência para a Integração, Migrações e Asilo (AIMA) or the Institute of Registries and Notaries (Instituto dos Registos e do Notariado or IRN) should prepare for delays or rescheduling.
Education Minister Fernando Alexandre announced that a major restructuring has reduced the ministry's staff by 50% and will save €50 million annually. The reform consolidated 18 entities into seven, focusing on the digitalization of human resources and administrative services. Parents and students should note that these changes aim to improve the efficiency of the National Education System.
We wanted to know how Manuel Carvalho da Silva analyses the Government's proposal, the negotiation process, and also how we can place what is at stake within the timeline of the country's recent history.
The government and social partners reported progress in negotiations over a new labour package, though a final agreement has not yet been reached. The Business Confederation of Portugal (Confederação Empresarial de Portugal or CIP) and the General Workers' Union (União Geral de Trabalhadores or UGT) noted increased flexibility, while the General Confederation of Portuguese Workers (Confederação Geral dos Trabalhadores Portugueses or CGTP) protested after being excluded from the meeting. Employers are pushing for measures to increase productivity, while the government warns that “nothing is agreed until everything is agreed.” Workers and business owners should monitor these negotiations for changes to overtime pay and contract rules.
CIP is the Confederation of Portuguese Business (Confederação Empresarial de Portugal), the main employers’ association that represents companies and sector groups in Portugal. It lobbies government on economic and labour policy and its statements are watched by investors, employers and workers when debates arise over funding rules and labour reforms.
The General Union of Workers (UGT – União Geral de Trabalhadores) is one of Portugal’s two main national trade union confederations. Founded in Lisbon on 28 October 1978, it was created as a social‑democratic alternative to the more communist‑aligned CGTP after the 1974 Revolution, grouping unions close to the Socialist Party and moderate centre‑right currents.
UGT represents around 400,000 workers and is affiliated to the European Trade Union Confederation and International Trade Union Confederation, giving Portuguese labour a voice at EU and global level. Its principles stress union independence from the state, employers, churches and parties, internal democracy and active worker participation.
Historically, UGT’s hallmark has been “propositive” social dialogue: it is usually more willing than CGTP to sign tripartite agreements on wages, labour law and social policy with governments and employers, shaping minimum wage increases, working‑time rules and social protection reforms. This makes UGT a key centrist actor in Portugal’s industrial relations, often mediating between left and right while defending collective bargaining and incremental improvements to labour rights.
CGTP (Confederação Geral dos Trabalhadores Portugueses – Intersindical Nacional) regularly publishes studies and proposals on labor market conditions, wages, working time, and employment rights. These reports are used to support the union confederation's negotiating positions with the government and employers.
CGTP studies typically cover topics such as minimum wage adequacy, working hours reform, collective bargaining trends, social security sustainability, and the impact of proposed labor law changes on workers. The confederation uses this research to advocate for positions in tripartite social dialogue (Concertação Social) alongside the UGT union confederation and employer groups.
These publications are significant because they often shape public debate ahead of labor reforms and can influence the pace and direction of legislative changes.
The Professionals Association of the Guard (Associação dos Profissionais da Guarda or APG/GNR) has called on the Ministry of Internal Administration (Ministério da Administração Interna) to honor a 2024 agreement regarding salary scales. The association reports that hundreds of officers in the National Republican Guard (Guarda Nacional Republicana or GNR) are refusing promotions because the increased responsibility does not come with a higher salary under the current remuneration statute (estatuto remuneratório). The Minister of Internal Administration is currently meeting with police unions to address recruitment challenges and an ageing workforce. Residents should note that police services remain operational despite the dispute.
The GNR (Guarda Nacional Republicana) is Portugal's national gendarmerie—a military police force founded in 1911, with origins dating to 1801. With over 22,600 personnel, GNR patrols 94-96% of Portuguese territory, covering rural areas, medium towns, and highways. Members are military personnel subject to military law, responsible for public order, customs, coastal control, environmental protection (SEPNA), firefighting/rescue (GIPS), border control, and ceremonial guards. GNR vs. PSP: The PSP (Polícia de Segurança Pública) is Portugal's civilian police force, covering major cities (Lisbon, Porto, Faro) and large urban areas—only 4% of territory but roughly half the population. PSP handles airport security, diplomatic protection, and private security regulation. Both share core missions (public order, crime prevention), but differ in nature: GNR is military with military training; PSP is civilian with police-focused training.
The Minister of Labour meets again today with the UGT and the four business confederations regarding changes to labour law, following the appeal made by the President of the Republic after the 'rupture' announced by the employers.
Negotiations for the labour law (lei laboral) revision resume today between the government, employer confederations, and the General Workers' Union (União Geral de Trabalhadores or UGT). Prime Minister Luís Montenegro stated that over 70 norms have been agreed upon, though key disagreements remain over the individual bank of hours (banco de horas) and rules regarding unlawful dismissal. Workers should note that the General Confederation of Portuguese Workers (Confederação Geral dos Trabalhadores Portugueses or CGTP) plans to attend despite not being officially invited.
The General Union of Workers (UGT – União Geral de Trabalhadores) is one of Portugal’s two main national trade union confederations. Founded in Lisbon on 28 October 1978, it was created as a social‑democratic alternative to the more communist‑aligned CGTP after the 1974 Revolution, grouping unions close to the Socialist Party and moderate centre‑right currents.
UGT represents around 400,000 workers and is affiliated to the European Trade Union Confederation and International Trade Union Confederation, giving Portuguese labour a voice at EU and global level. Its principles stress union independence from the state, employers, churches and parties, internal democracy and active worker participation.
Historically, UGT’s hallmark has been “propositive” social dialogue: it is usually more willing than CGTP to sign tripartite agreements on wages, labour law and social policy with governments and employers, shaping minimum wage increases, working‑time rules and social protection reforms. This makes UGT a key centrist actor in Portugal’s industrial relations, often mediating between left and right while defending collective bargaining and incremental improvements to labour rights.
CGTP (Confederação Geral dos Trabalhadores Portugueses – Intersindical Nacional) regularly publishes studies and proposals on labor market conditions, wages, working time, and employment rights. These reports are used to support the union confederation's negotiating positions with the government and employers.
CGTP studies typically cover topics such as minimum wage adequacy, working hours reform, collective bargaining trends, social security sustainability, and the impact of proposed labor law changes on workers. The confederation uses this research to advocate for positions in tripartite social dialogue (Concertação Social) alongside the UGT union confederation and employer groups.
These publications are significant because they often shape public debate ahead of labor reforms and can influence the pace and direction of legislative changes.
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. 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. 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. 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.
The new President of the Republic (Presidente da República) António José Seguro emphasized the need for political stability during his inauguration, though he noted it must serve to improve living conditions. The government expects the new president to help mediate upcoming negotiations regarding labor policies between Prime Minister Luís Montenegro and opposition parties. Residents should note that the president's speech focused on the transitoriness of power and the importance of democratic institutions.
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.
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. 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. 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. 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.
Workers' committees from the national broadcaster RTP and the news agency Lusa have issued a joint statement expressing concern over the government's lack of transparency regarding future media policies. The groups are protesting potential consolidation and changes to Lusa's statutes, which they fear could lead to political interference. The Ministry of the Presidency has defended the changes, claiming they will make the agency more professional and less dependent on the government.
RTP (Rádio e Televisão de Portugal) is Portugal's public service broadcaster, operating television channels (RTP1, RTP2, RTP3, RTP Memória, RTP Internacional, RTP África), radio stations (Antena 1, Antena 2, Antena 3, RDP Internacional, RDP África), and the RTP Play streaming platform.
Founded in 1955 (television) and 1935 (radio, as Emissora Nacional), RTP is funded through a monthly audiovisual contribution (Contribuição para o Audiovisual, CAV) included in electricity bills, plus limited advertising revenue. It operates under a public service concession that mandates news independence, cultural programming, and coverage for Portuguese-speaking communities worldwide.
RTP plays a central role in Portuguese public life — it hosts the main political debates during elections, produces news programming, and broadcasts major national events. Its editorial independence and funding model are recurring subjects of political debate, with some parties advocating for privatization or restructuring of the public broadcaster.
The government is amending the statutes of Lusa, Portugal's national news agency, to make the organization more professional and less influenced by political shifts. It is the primary source for breaking news and official reports, providing content to media outlets across the country. Those following local news should note that Lusa is often the first to report on government announcements and legislative changes.
President António José Seguro concluded his two-day inauguration program with visits to Arganil, Guimarães, and Porto. He pressured the government for more action and fewer words regarding aid for wildfire victims in the interior (interior). The tour emphasized territorial cohesion (coesão territorial) and a commitment to a country where every region counts. Residents should note that the President's first official tour will focus on the central region.
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.
The last meeting ended without an agreement and with mutual accusations of intransigence.
Update: Government schedules fresh labour law talks for Monday
Minister of Labour Rosário Palma Ramalho has summoned the General Confederation of Portuguese Workers (União Geral de Trabalhadores or UGT) and business leaders to a meeting on Monday, March 16. The government aims to exhaust all possibilities for an agreement rather than prolonging the discussion indefinitely.
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.
The General Union of Workers (UGT – União Geral de Trabalhadores) is one of Portugal’s two main national trade union confederations. Founded in Lisbon on 28 October 1978, it was created as a social‑democratic alternative to the more communist‑aligned CGTP after the 1974 Revolution, grouping unions close to the Socialist Party and moderate centre‑right currents.
UGT represents around 400,000 workers and is affiliated to the European Trade Union Confederation and International Trade Union Confederation, giving Portuguese labour a voice at EU and global level. Its principles stress union independence from the state, employers, churches and parties, internal democracy and active worker participation.
Historically, UGT’s hallmark has been “propositive” social dialogue: it is usually more willing than CGTP to sign tripartite agreements on wages, labour law and social policy with governments and employers, shaping minimum wage increases, working‑time rules and social protection reforms. This makes UGT a key centrist actor in Portugal’s industrial relations, often mediating between left and right while defending collective bargaining and incremental improvements to labour rights.
President António José Seguro and Parliament President José Pedro Aguiar-Branco have urged the government and social partners to resume negotiations on the new labour law (legislação laboral). While employer confederations recently stated conditions for an agreement were lacking, the government and some unions have expressed openness to further talks. The proposed reforms, known as the Trabalho XXI draft bill, have faced significant hurdles over issues like outsourcing and the right to disconnect. Workers should note that Socialist Party (Partido Socialista) leader José Luís Carneiro has criticized the current proposals as a “choice for inhumanity.”
Update: Business groups and UGT agree to resume labour talks
President Seguro has successfully revived negotiations after business confederations previously declared them over. The Confederation of Tourism (Confederação do Turismo de Portugal or CTP) and the Confederation of Commerce and Services (Confederação do Comércio e Serviços de Portugal or CCP) confirmed their availability to return to the table. The General Union of Workers (União Geral de Trabalhadores or UGT) also clarified it never intended to leave the discussions.
Socialist Party (PS)
Portugal's other traditional major party suffered a historic collapse in the 2025 election, dropping from 78 to 58 seats and falling to third place for the first time in democratic history. The party was led by Pedro Nuno Santos from January 2024 until his resignation following the May 2025 defeat. José Luís Carneiro, a 53-year-old former Minister of Internal Administration known for his moderate positioning within the party, was elected unopposed as the new Secretary-General with 95% of votes in June 2025. The Socialist Party governed Portugal from 2015 to 2024, including an absolute majority from 2022 to 2024 under António Costa, who resigned in November 2023 amid a corruption investigation. The PS previously led the innovative "Geringonça" (contraption) coalition government from 2015-2019, a minority government supported by the Left Bloc and Portuguese Communist Party that reversed austerity measures and presided over economic recovery.
José Pedro Aguiar‑Branco is the President of the Assembly of the Republic, who in this story requested that the Committee on Constitutional Affairs examine the constitutional conformity of government measures in a proposed bill. He is using his parliamentary role to trigger a formal review of changes affecting confession rules and the rights of the defence.
The General Union of Workers (UGT – União Geral de Trabalhadores) is one of Portugal’s two main national trade union confederations. Founded in Lisbon on 28 October 1978, it was created as a social‑democratic alternative to the more communist‑aligned CGTP after the 1974 Revolution, grouping unions close to the Socialist Party and moderate centre‑right currents.
UGT represents around 400,000 workers and is affiliated to the European Trade Union Confederation and International Trade Union Confederation, giving Portuguese labour a voice at EU and global level. Its principles stress union independence from the state, employers, churches and parties, internal democracy and active worker participation.
Historically, UGT’s hallmark has been “propositive” social dialogue: it is usually more willing than CGTP to sign tripartite agreements on wages, labour law and social policy with governments and employers, shaping minimum wage increases, working‑time rules and social protection reforms. This makes UGT a key centrist actor in Portugal’s industrial relations, often mediating between left and right while defending collective bargaining and incremental improvements to labour rights.
Negotiations for a new labour reform package ended without an agreement between the government, the General Workers' Union (União Geral de Trabalhadores or UGT), and employer confederations. The Business Confederation of Portugal (Confederação Empresarial de Portugal or CIP) stated that 12 points remain unresolved after seven months of debate, including last-minute demands that hindered a consensus. While the government blamed the UGT for being “intransigent,” the union argued the proposals were structurally inadequate and failed to meet necessary conditions. Workers should note that current labour laws remain in place as the future of the reform package is now uncertain.
Update: Opposition leader criticizes government's "lack of humility"
The Secretary-General of the Socialist Party (Partido Socialista or PS), José Luís Carneiro, accused the government of a “lack of democratic humility” following the collapse of labor negotiations. Carneiro argued that the failure to reach an agreement with social partners harms the country's competitiveness and urged Prime Minister Luís Montenegro to resume dialogue on more acceptable terms.
The General Union of Workers (UGT – União Geral de Trabalhadores) is one of Portugal’s two main national trade union confederations. Founded in Lisbon on 28 October 1978, it was created as a social‑democratic alternative to the more communist‑aligned CGTP after the 1974 Revolution, grouping unions close to the Socialist Party and moderate centre‑right currents.
UGT represents around 400,000 workers and is affiliated to the European Trade Union Confederation and International Trade Union Confederation, giving Portuguese labour a voice at EU and global level. Its principles stress union independence from the state, employers, churches and parties, internal democracy and active worker participation.
Historically, UGT’s hallmark has been “propositive” social dialogue: it is usually more willing than CGTP to sign tripartite agreements on wages, labour law and social policy with governments and employers, shaping minimum wage increases, working‑time rules and social protection reforms. This makes UGT a key centrist actor in Portugal’s industrial relations, often mediating between left and right while defending collective bargaining and incremental improvements to labour rights.
CIP is the Confederation of Portuguese Business (Confederação Empresarial de Portugal), the main employers’ association that represents companies and sector groups in Portugal. It lobbies government on economic and labour policy and its statements are watched by investors, employers and workers when debates arise over funding rules and labour reforms.
Socialist Party (PS)
Portugal's other traditional major party suffered a historic collapse in the 2025 election, dropping from 78 to 58 seats and falling to third place for the first time in democratic history. The party was led by Pedro Nuno Santos from January 2024 until his resignation following the May 2025 defeat. José Luís Carneiro, a 53-year-old former Minister of Internal Administration known for his moderate positioning within the party, was elected unopposed as the new Secretary-General with 95% of votes in June 2025. The Socialist Party governed Portugal from 2015 to 2024, including an absolute majority from 2022 to 2024 under António Costa, who resigned in November 2023 amid a corruption investigation. The PS previously led the innovative "Geringonça" (contraption) coalition government from 2015-2019, a minority government supported by the Left Bloc and Portuguese Communist Party that reversed austerity measures and presided over economic recovery.
António José Seguro, who will take office on Monday, has said health will be his priority in the first year and warned he will veto proposed labour-law changes unless they gain agreement through Social Concertation (Concertação Social). He framed the veto threat as conditional on a lack of consensus, signalling an active early role in industrial and labour debates. Workers and employers should watch his early statements and any formal veto notices.
Update: Ventura wins 33%, positions as right leader
André Ventura received just over 33% of the vote in the second round and commentators say he is positioning himself as the leader of the right despite losing to Seguro. Opinion pieces also argue António José Seguro faces significant challenges but may balance the presidency between constitutional limits and voter expectations.
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.
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.
Groups led by the Movimento Democrático de Mulheres are staging demonstrations in 16 cities demanding equality, dignity, better wages and improved public services, while the Assembly of the Republic (Assembleia da República) is holding exhibitions, talks and concerts from 9–14 March to mark International Women's Day. Expresso notes the EU pay-transparency directive, to be transposed by June, could force more employer reporting and help expose wage gaps. Those attending public events should check local routes and schedules for marches and parliamentary exhibitions.
The Assembly of the Republic (Assembleia da República) is Portugal's unicameral parliament, located in the Palácio de São Bento in Lisbon. It consists of 230 deputies elected by proportional representation for four-year terms.
The Assembly's powers include making and amending laws, approving the state budget, ratifying international treaties, and overseeing the government through debates, hearings, and committees. It can also pass votes of no confidence to bring down a government, as happened in March 2025.
Following the May 2025 elections, the current parliamentary composition is led by the Democratic Alliance (AD) with the largest share of seats, followed by Chega, PS, and smaller parties including the Liberal Initiative, Left Bloc, Livre, and PCP.
The Institute for Employment and Professional Training (Instituto do Emprego e Formação Profissional or IEFP) approved 390 applications for an extraordinary fund to maintain jobs and support self‑employed workers hit by storm Kristin, allocating just over €11 million. The measure complements parliamentary emergency support for storm‑affected workers and aims to preserve payrolls in damaged businesses. Employers and affected workers should consult IEFP guidance on eligibility and payments.
The Institute of Employment and Vocational Training (IEFP) (Instituto do Emprego e Formação Profissional) runs employment centres, job-placement services and vocational training in Portugal and publishes official unemployment data. IEFP reported a 10.8% drop in registered unemployed in December year‑on‑year and near‑stable figures from November, so job-seeking residents (including expats) should register with IEFP to access unemployment benefits, training and hiring programmes.
