Belion Partners - Residency and Investment expert in Portugal

A Closer Look at the 2024 Election Results in Portugal

Mar 11, 2024

Portugal conducted general elections on the 10th of March. The political landscape was shaped by the right coalition formed between the Social Democratic Party (PSD) and the People’s Party (CDS), known as the Democratic Alliance (AD), which emerged as the leading party with 29.52% of the votes, securing 79 parliamentary seats. Despite this victory, they narrowly avoided a tie with the second-strongest political force.


The Socialist Party (PS), previously holding a majority, now ranks as the second-largest political force, attaining 28.63% of the total votes and electing 77 parliamentarians. This shift signifies a significant transformation in Portugal's political scenario, with potentially far-reaching consequences.


Vote counting for the recent election remains incomplete, awaiting the inclusion of results from 31 consulates. Consequently, the allocation of four parliamentary seats remains undecided.


The balance of power has shifted from left to right in this political election, with right-wing parties emerging as the winners. The far-right Chega party experienced an unprecedented surge in popularity, quadrupling the number of elected parliamentarians from 12 to 48. The liberal initiative (IL), another right-wing party, maintained its previous results, securing 5.08% of the votes and electing 8 parliamentarians.


The political party PAN (People-Animals-Nature), positioned outside the traditional left-right spectrum, secured 1.92% of the total votes, electing one parliamentarian to represent their interests.


On the left side of the hemicycle, the general election witnessed a notable rise of the LIVRE party, securing 3.26% of the votes and electing 4 parliamentarians—an increase from the previous elections where they had only one deputy. The Left Bloc (BE) maintained its position with 5 parliamentarians and 4.46% of the votes. The Unitary Democratic Coalition (CDU), a coalition between the Portuguese Communist Party (PCP) and the Ecologist Party (PEV), secured 3.30% of the votes, electing 4 parliamentarians, which represents a decrease of 2 parliamentarians from the prior general elections.


It is noteworthy that abstention decreased during the 2024 general elections in Portugal, defying the prevailing trend of increasing abstention observed since the nation's transition to a free democratic state following the Carnation Revolution on the 25th of April 1974.

Cascais Recognised as a Top Green Destination with Platinum Status

15 May, 2024
Cascais, a coastal resort town in Portugal just a stone's throw from Lisbon, recently won an award for its investment in promoting sustainability in the short and long term. The ceremony took place at the ITB Tourism Fair in Berlin and the award was bestowed by the Green Destination Foundation. The accolade takes into consideration five key criteria—environmental, cultural, economic, social, and management. This prize primarily focuses on tourism and acknowledges Cascais' holistic approach and exemplary investment in fostering sustainability, underpinned by meticulous strategic planning and other sustainable indicators. This recognition underscores Cascais' ongoing dedication to environmental responsibility, extending beyond the tourism sector. Past accolades from the Green Destination Foundation include a QualityCoast Silver award in 2013 and the esteemed QualityCoast Gold prize in 2021, reflecting Cascais' consistent pursuit of sustainable practices. The Green Destination Platinum prize not only celebrates Cascais' environmental quality but also acknowledges its efforts in various town functions. Notably, the municipality's commitment to environmental sustainability benefits both tourists and residents, with a focus on community engagement and the implementation of fair ecological solutions. Driven by a vision to be the ultimate destination for living, be it for a day, a week, or a lifetime, Cascais' local authorities have spearheaded numerous initiatives from expanding green spaces and tree plantations to nurturing biodiversity in both urban and protected areas. Additionally, community gardens, eco-friendly transportation, and renewable energy creation initiatives epitomise Cascais' unwavering commitment to sustainable development. Cascais has long been a popular choice for expatriates . The town boasts a wide array of delectable restaurants that specialise in shellfish, a diverse selection of homes tailored to individual needs, stunning beaches, wonderful natural landscapes, and it is very close to Lisbon. These attributes make Cascais an appealing place for expatriates to settle down and call home. Looking ahead, Cascais sets its sights on the prestigious GSTC (Global Sustainable Tourism Council) certification, a testament to its dedication to global sustainability standards. It's a noble aspiration for a town that has long prioritised the well-being of its inhabitants and holds sustainability as a core value. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Cascais for its well-deserved accolades and commend the town for its enduring commitment to sustainability.
When relocating to a different country, seeking advice from fellow expatriates can be beneficial.

Expat Interview: Living in Portugal

13 May, 2024
Undoubtedly, consulting someone who has previously relocated can be invaluable as you prepare to embark on a similar journey.
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