“It is not worth prevaricating”

In recent statements, the Prime Minister claimed that “it is not worth prevaricating”. While this sentiment is widely applauded, the reality in Portugal suggests otherwise. A recent study by the Faculty of Economics of Porto (FEP) reveals that nearly 35% of the Portuguese GDP exists within the shadow economy, leading to an estimated annual loss of 16 billion euros in tax revenue. With total tax debts in coercive processes reaching approximately 30 billion euros, and a growing perception that tax evasion goes unpunished while small-time offenders are swiftly prosecuted, the public is left questioning whether crime truly pays. To preserve democracy, society must be genuinely convinced that non-compliance is not a viable or rewarded path.