Do you know Political system in Portugal? Navigating Government and Politics in Portugal: An informative guide tailor for expats, unraveling the country’s governance structure, political dynamics, and civic engagement opportunities.
The Evolution of Politics in Portugal
Political Portugal has its roots in the 12th-century monarchy, which makes it one of Europe’s oldest nation-states. The country underwent a trilogy of decisive changes: the establishment of the Estado Novo (a right-wing authoritarian regime) in 1933 under Salazar, after a military coup in 1926.
It was the Carnation Revolution in 1974 that made all the difference, a peaceful army coup that put an end to dictatorship, and the beginning of democracy. This led to a new constitution on April 2, 1976 which is considered the “cornerstone of the current democratic system in Portugal”.
Portugal is a democratic republic ruled by the law and with popular sovereignty and separation of powers. The government is a parliamentary republic, with a President as the head of state and a Prime Minister as the head of government.
The Political System in Portugal
Portugal operates under a parliamentary democracy, and the Assembly of the Republic (Assembleia da República) is its central legislative body. This unicameral parliament plays a vital role in shaping national policy, approving laws, and holding the government accountable.
The Assembly is made up of 230 Members of Parliament (MPs), elected by Portuguese citizens through proportional representation in 22 electoral districts. These districts are based on geographical regions, and the number of seats allocated to each party reflects their share of the vote in national elections.
Beyond lawmaking, the Assembly also approves the state budget, ratifies international treaties, and can call inquiries into government actions. It serves as a key check on the executive branch, ensuring transparency and democratic oversight in Portugal’s governance.
Political Parties in Portugal
Socialist Party (Partido Socialista, PS)
The Socialist Party is a center-left party that advocates for social democracy, welfare state policies, and progressive social reforms. It has been one of the dominant parties in Portuguese politics and has held government positions at various times.
Social Democratic Party (Partido Social Democrata, PSD)
The Social Democratic Party is a center-right party that promotes conservative and liberal-conservative policies. It emphasizes free-market principles, economic liberalism, and fiscal responsibility. The PSD has also a major force in Portuguese politics and has alternated in power with the Socialist Party.
Communist Party (Partido Comunista Português, PCP)
The Communist Party is a left-wing party that adheres to communist ideology and advocates for workers’ rights, public ownership of key industries, and social equality. It has a long history in Portuguese politics and has consistently maintained a significant presence in the parliament.
Left Bloc (Bloco de Esquerda, BE)
The Left Bloc is a left-wing party that combines elements of socialism, environmentalism, and social justice. It emerge in the late 1990s as a progressive force and gain support among younger voters and activists. The Left Bloc has been influential in pushing for social and environmental reforms.
Chega
Chega is a right-wing populist party that emerged in 2019. It emphasizes national identity, traditional values, and stricter immigration policies. Chega has attracted attention for its strong anti-establishment rhetoric and positions on security and law enforcement.
People’s Party (Partido Popular, CDS-PP)
The People’s Party is a center-right party that represents Christian democratic values, conservative principles, and liberal economics. It has traditionally been associates with Christian-oriented policies and has participate in coalition governments with the Social Democratic Party.
People Animals Nature (Pessoas-Animais-Natureza – PAN)
PAN is a progressive party that focuses on environmental issues, animal rights, and social justice. It advocates for sustainable development, protection of biodiversity, and the promotion of animal welfare. PAN has gained increased support in recent years and has secured representation in the parliament.
Liberal Initiative (Iniciativa Liberal – IL)
IL is a liberal party that promotes classical liberal principles, limited government intervention, and economic freedom. It advocates for deregulation, lower taxes, and individual liberties. IL has positioned itself as a pro-market alternative in Portuguese politics.
LIVRE
LIVRE is a left-wing party that focuses on social justice, equality, and human rights. It advocates for a participatory democracy, sustainable development, and progressive social policies. LIVRE emerged from social movements and seeks to address social and environmental challenges through inclusive and progressive politics.
President of Portugal
Portugal’s current President of the Republic is Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, a moderate conservative and former law professor. He was re-elected in January 2021 for a second and final 5-year term, which means his presidency is expected to continue until 2026.
As head of state, President Marcelo holds a mostly symbolic role but plays an important part in safeguarding democratic institutions. He can appoint the prime minister, dissolve parliament, and veto laws, though typically acts with restraint and neutrality.
Known for his personable style and strong media presence, Marcelo has remained one of the country’s most popular political figures.
Prime Minister of Portugal
Following the May 18, 2025 election, Portugal’s political scene shifted significantly. Luís Montenegro, leader of the centre-right Democratic Alliance (AD) and head of the Social Democratic Party (PSD), was appointed Prime Minister after his bloc won the most seats (91) in parliament.
Although short of an outright majority, Montenegro was invited by President Marcelo to form a government. His appointment marks a return to centre-right leadership after years of Socialist rule.
As prime minister, Montenegro now faces the challenge of governing in a fragmented parliament, navigating alliances while managing economic and social reforms.
2025 Portuguese Parliamentary Election
The snap election held on May 18, 2025, brought a significant reshaping of Portugal’s political landscape. With all 230 parliamentary seats up for grabs, the results revealed both gains for the centre-right and a striking surge for the far-right.
While the Democratic Alliance (AD) emerged as the largest force, it fell short of an outright majority. Meanwhile, Chega made a historic leap, overtaking the Socialist Party (PS) to become the official opposition for the first time.
Here’s how the seats were distributed across the main parties:
- Democratic Alliance (AD – PSD/CDS‑PP): 91 seats
- Chega (CH): 60 seats
- Socialist Party (PS): 58 seats
- Liberal Initiative (IL): 9 seats
- LIVRE: 6 seats
- CDU (Communist/Green coalition): 3 seats
- Left Bloc (BE): 1 seat
- PAN: 1 seat
- JPP (Together for the People): 1 seat
The Electoral System in Portugal
The Portuguese electoral model consists of presidential, parliamentary, local and European elections, which have different procedures constituting democratic representation at different levels.
Presidential Elections
Presidents are elected in two rounds every 5 years. If no contender garners more than 50% in the first round, there is a second round between the top two. This gives the president robust, majority-supported legitimacy.
Parliamentary Elections
Portugal elects its legislature in a form of proportional representation and by using the d’Hondt method, a party-list proportional representation method, the actual design of which can be attributed to Victor D’Hondt. The country is divided into districts, and seats are awarded based on each party’s portion of the vote — ensuring fair and proportional representation.
Local Elections (Municipal & Parish)
Elections for municipal councils and parish assemblies occur every four years. These also employ a system of proportion representation and closed lists, meaning that people can exert influence on decisions at community level.
European Elections
European elections in Portugal to elect members of the European Parliament (MEPs) occur by proportional representation across the country. The country is one national constituency with seats assigned in proportion to the national vote.
Voting in Portugal
Voting is central to Portugal’s democracy, giving citizens aged 18 and over the right to shape their country’s future. Only Portuguese citizens registered on the electoral roll can vote.
Portugal uses proportional representation, where voters choose political parties rather than individual candidates. This ensures fair representation in the Assembly of the Republic.
General elections are held every four years, with the President setting the date in consultation with political leaders. The country is divided into electoral districts, each serving as a voting constituency.
To support participation, postal and absentee voting are available for those abroad or unable to vote in person.
Can Expats Participate in Elections in Portugal?
Expats living in Portugal can participate in local (municipal and parish) elections, depending on their nationality and legal residency status. EU citizens who are registered residents in Portugal are automatically eligible to vote in local elections.
Citizens of countries with reciprocal agreements, such as Brazil, Cape Verde, Uruguay, and New Zealand, may also vote after meeting specific residency requirements—typically a minimum of two to three years.
However, national elections, including parliamentary, presidential, and referendums, are reserved for Portuguese citizens only. This means that unless an expat becomes a Portuguese national, they cannot vote in decisions that affect national government or representation in the European Parliament.
Still, participating in local elections allows expats to have a say in their community’s governance and local development.
Relations With the European Union
Portugal has been a member of the European Union (EU) since 1986. As an EU member state, Portugal participates in the decision-making processes of the Union and adheres to EU laws and regulations.
Portuguese citizens are also European Union citizens, benefiting from the rights. And privileges associated with EU membership, including the freedom of movement and the ability to work and reside in other EU member states.
Portugal is represented in the EU institutions, which include, European Commission, European Council, European Parliament and Council of the European Union.
Portugal is a member of the Eurozone, adopting the euro as its currency in 1999. Economic and monetary policy decisions for the Eurozone are made collectively by member states. Also with the European Central Bank (ECB) playing a central role in managing the euro and ensuring price stability.
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Frequently Asked Questions About The Political System in Portugal
What is the political system in Portugal?
Portugal has a semi-presidential democratic republic, where the President is the head of state and the Prime Minister is the head of government.
How often are elections held in Portugal?
General elections for the Assembly of the Republic, the country’s parliament, are held every four years.
How many major political parties are there in Portugal?
Portugal has several major political parties, including the Socialist Party (PS), Social Democratic Party (PSD), Left Bloc (BE), and Communist Party (PCP).
What are the key institutions of government in Portugal?
The key institutions of government in Portugal include the President, the Assembly of the Republic, the Council of Ministers, and the Constitutional Court.
Can expats participate in political activities and elections in Portugal?
Yes, expats who are EU citizens can vote in local elections in Portugal. However, they cannot vote in national elections unless they have acquires Portuguese citizenship.
Who is the current President of Portugal, and what is their role?
The current President of Portugal is Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa. The President primarily serves as the head of state, with responsibilities such as appointing the Prime Minister, dissolving Parliament, and overseeing the Constitution’s implementation.
How is the Prime Minister of Portugal chosen?
The Prime Minister is appointed by the President following general elections. Typically, the leader of the party or coalition with the most seats in the Assembly of the Republic becomes the Prime Minister.
What role does the Assembly of the Republic play in Portuguese politics?
The Assembly of the Republic is Portugal’s parliament and is responsible for passing laws, approving the state budget, and overseeing the government’s activities. It consists of 230 elected deputies.
How does local government work in Portugal?
Portugal is divided into municipalities (concelhos) and parishes (freguesias), each with its own local government. Local councils manage services such as education, transportation, and public infrastructure.
Is Portugal a member of the European Union?
Yes, Portugal has been a member of the European Union since 1986.
