Stories from Lisbon · Portugal

Portuguese physician and writer Antonio Lobo Antunes died in Lisbon at the age of 83. He passed away in early March. His body of work is described as a chronicle of Portuguese history. He spent his life writing a single novel in more than 30 different versions.

The public service contract for CP, Portugal's national rail operator, is set to expire in 2029.

Data from the National Anti-Corruption Mechanism shows 328 people and companies were convicted of crimes in 2022. Convictions increased to 526 in 2023, with 167 individuals receiving prison sentences. Most convictions were related to the crime of money laundering.

Former Bank of Portugal Governor Centeno stated at a forum that demographics represent Europe's primary economic problem. He also addressed labor market issues during the discussion.

Francisco Brito, president of the Association, stated that Starlink internet devices are being contracted to improve future emergency responses. The devices may not arrive before the upcoming fire season as procurement is still ongoing. The government plan includes modernizing technological infrastructure and computer equipment alongside staff training. The NAFRO has not received information regarding who will fund the required training, though it expects government support. The Portuguese government has failed to produce results from a task force created to address recurring wildfire and power outage issues. Since 2006, 720 million euros have been spent on various plans that failed to prevent the June 2017 and October 2017 fires, as well as the April 2025 blackout. A working group was established to provide responses within 90 days, but 12 months have passed without visible results.

Portugal's Finance Minister Miranda Sarmento has set specific budget surplus targets for the coming weeks. The targets are expected to fluctuate by 0.1 to 0.2 percentage points depending on storm-related economic impacts. Economy Minister Castro Almeida dismissed opposition criticisms of the government's economic presentation as mere propaganda. Almeida stated he has not heard specific criticisms of concrete measures from party leaders. The report indicates a lower economic growth forecast and a projected budget deficit. Additionally, the report notes that irrigation prices are set to rise by 60 million euros, following farmer complaints regarding 20 million euros in costs. The Portuguese Minister of Foreign Affairs summoned the Israeli ambassador to demand explanations regarding tensions involving Hezbollah.

The Socialist Party (PS) has not yet indicated a name for the Justice Ombudsman position. A meeting of the parliamentary leaders' conference concluded without the PS presenting an alternative to Tiago Antunes. Antunes is the former Secretary of State whose previous nomination was rejected. The party's inability to provide a candidate follows the rejection of Antunes' candidacy. The previous candidate failed to secure the required two-thirds majority of votes from deputies. Consequently, the Constitutional Court continues to seek a candidate for the role. Francisco Figueira, spokesperson for the conference of leaders, confirmed the lack of progress following the meeting. The meeting regarding the Social Constitution was scheduled for May 7.

The Constitutional Court and the Ombudsman (Provedoria de Justiça) currently have no candidates for their respective leadership positions. A meeting of parliamentary leaders concluded with the primary purpose of scheduling elections for the IRDP opinion concept.

The Portuguese government has suspended proposed changes to the social mobility subsidy. Minister Miguel Pinto informed deputies during an Assembly of the Republic hearing that the government is awaiting a decision on specific parameters. The discussions involve the financing regime for air travel between the mainland and the islands of Madeira and the Azores. The Portuguese government is analyzing a proposal for new labor legislation that aims for modern flexibility. President António José Seguro has called for consensus between social partners, including unions and employers, regarding the proposal. Economist António Mendonça noted that while flexibility is necessary, it should not transform the nature of workers. The debate remains ongoing as the proposal undergoes analysis.

The Portuguese Communist Party confirmed the death of José Santa Bárbara. Santa Bárbara was the author of nine album covers for artist José Afonso. The party noted his legacy as a prominent Portuguese artist and a dedicated communist militant. The Socialist Party is seeking the approval of an extraordinary, long-term supplement to improve the lowest pensions. João Luís Carneiro stated the party will support the budget if the government provides this supplement. The proposal aims to address financial needs for low-income retirees. The party is questioning the Prime Minister on whether this supplement will be available following previous budget discussions. The Socialist Party indicated it would support the measure if it is approved. A commentator stated that citizens on minimum pensions can only afford two baskets of essential goods per month at 260 euros each.