Work: Labour market news in Portugal

Portugal was elected as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the fourth time during the first round of voting on Wednesday. Prime Minister Luís Montenegro described the election as a significant recognition of the country's international standing and diplomatic influence.

Portugal's year-on-year inflation reached 2.7% in March 2026, up from 2.1% in February, primarily driven by a 5.8% surge in energy prices. This spike, linked to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, accounts for over half of the total inflation increase. While the broader Eurozone labour market is expected to remain resilient, the rising cost of living remains a significant concern for the national economy.

A Diário de Notícias opinion piece argues that sustainability concerns now extend beyond environment and economy into work practices, urging organisations to balance resource use with staff welfare and avoid compromising the future. The commentary calls for assessing whether current workplace models use resources responsibly and for policies that treat people as a core resource. Employers and HR departments should consider whether current practices support longer-term staff wellbeing and resource efficiency.

A CGTP study reported that women now make up 53.5% of the total unemployed in 2025, up from 52.6% the previous year. The increase points to persistent gender differences in the labour market and may influence calls for targeted employment and training policies. Jobseekers and those using employment services should monitor local programmes aimed at reducing gender gaps.