1. Immigrant Influx to Portugal Increased by 95% in Just Two Years

The National Statistics Institute (INE) released demographic statistics for 2023 on Friday, showing that the resident population rose to 10.64 million people, a 1.16% increase driven by immigration. Excluding migration flows, which account for the permanent entry and exit of people, the resident population actually decreased by 0.31%. Meanwhile, the migration growth rate increased by 1.47%.

The number of permanent immigrants increased by 13.3% compared to 2022, reaching 189,367 people. This figure represents a 95% increase over 2021. Compared to the 36,849 permanent immigrants in 2015, the first year in the period considered by the official statistics agency and a time when Portugal began its recovery after the financial assistance program (troika), immigration surged by 513%. Regarding permanent emigration, the gradual decline observed from 2015 to 2021 (from 40,377 to 25,079 people) reversed in 2022 and continued to rise in 2023, reaching 33,666 people. With these migration flows, the balance was positive for the seventh consecutive year, increasing from 136,144 people to 155,701 in 2023.

Note that, apart from the data on migration, the INE data also show a continued aging population between 2015 and 2023, with women having an average age of 48.6 years and men 45.4 years. In 2022, these figures were 48.4 and 45.4 years, respectively. In terms of mortality, figures from the first two years of the pandemic have already been reversed, but the 118,295 deaths recorded in 2023 (-4.9% compared to 2022) are still above the numbers between 2015 and 2019, when there was a peak of 113,051 in 2018. The infant mortality rate also dropped by one-tenth to 2.5%, a figure lower than in 2020 and 2021 (pandemic years).

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2. Brazil’s Largest Criminal Organization Suspected of Using Portuguese Football Clubs to Launder Money

The PCC (First Command of the Capital), Brazil’s largest criminal organization, is suspected of laundering money in Portugal through football clubs. Over the past year, businessmen linked to the PCC attempted to acquire Varzim, Vilaverdense, and Felgueiras, ultimately settling on Fafe. Ulisses de Souza Jorge, an agent for Éder Militão, was a central figure in these negotiations, leveraging connections with key Portuguese sports figures, including Pinto da Costa and his son. Reports indicate that these businessmen also proposed millions of euros for stakes in these clubs, mirroring the methods used in Brazil.

The PCC operates in Portugal with a level of internal organization similar to that in Brazil. They have established a disciplinary sector, functioning as a tribunal to decide on penalties and death sentences for non-compliant members. This network is structured to expand within the prison system, where recruitment is ongoing, both in male and female prisons. Lincoln Gakiya, a Brazilian prosecutor, warns that Portugal’s prison system is ill-prepared for this type of organized crime, which can easily multiply from within.

Portugal’s role as a gateway for drug trafficking into Europe is becoming more evident, with the PCC controlling key ports such as Lisbon and Sines. These ports are integral to the unloading, storage, and distribution of narcotics to other European countries. SIS (Intelligence and Security Services) reports that the PCC has an extensive presence in Portugal, with around 1,000 members involved in these operations, contributing to Portugal’s strategic importance in the broader European drug trade.

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3. Government’s Mega Security Campaign Seen as “Gross Violation of the Rule of Law”

The mega-campaign Portugal Sempre Seguro, coordinated by the government, is a six-week operation designed to increase inspection and prevention actions across the country. Criticized by the PS and BE, the initiative has been called a “gross violation of the rule of law” and a propaganda operation. Deputy Isabel Moreira condemned the campaign, claiming the government cannot order the police based on feelings of insecurity, emphasizing the importance of proportionality and necessity. The Socialist Party leader, Alexandra Leitão, criticized the approach, proposing instead community projects and neighborhood policing, aiming to avoid a repressive logic.

In response, Mariana Mortágua, leader of the Left Bloc, described the campaign as a provocation, accusing the government of using state resources for media operations that manipulate the perception of security. She condemned the lack of technical criteria and the irresponsibility behind these operations, asserting that the campaign represented a combination of incompetence and insensitivity. Isabel Moreira further argued that this was a political operation, one that “instrumentalizes the police,” challenging its acceptability in a democratic society.

The government’s security campaign, launched on November 4 and extending until mid-December, has already led to the arrest of 980 people in its first week, a 41% increase compared to last year. According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MAI), the focus is on tackling violent crime, drug trafficking, and illegal immigration, with multiforce teams from agencies like GNR, PSP, and Judicial Police collaborating on the operation. The campaign seeks to reinforce security through visible actions, coordinated across various state bodies, though the MAI maintains that these actions are part of the forces’ normal activities, with execution left to the discretion of the involved services.

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4. A Christmas Market is Coming to São Vicente (Feira da Ladra)

From December 19th to 22nd, the Feira da Ladra area will host a Christmas market, with everything you’d expect: stalls, workshops, a comedy night, and an “enchanted forest”. Slowly but surely, the Christmas calendar is taking shape. In Campo de Santa Clara, the season officially kicks off on December 19th with the opening of the São Vicente Christmas Market. Centered around the Santa Clara Market, the event will feature several stalls, workshops, Christmas carols, a comedy night, and a charity initiative. All activities are free of charge.

Outside the market walls, one of the most anticipated attractions, announced by the São Vicente Parish Council, is the Enchanted Forest, located in Jardim Botto Machado. Over the course of four days, this space, designed for children, will offer artificial snow, children’s theater performances, storytelling sessions, crafts, face painting, and a Santa Claus house. The area will be open from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Also free, but with mandatory prior registration, is the workshop schedule. There are three workshops scheduled for December 19th at 11:00 AM. Available options include cookie dough and brownie cakes, embroidery with Maria Moon, and natural honey soap making.

On the first two days, expect an appropriate soundtrack, with performances from the Staccato Choir and the Coro Menor. Inside the Santa Clara Market, from December 20th onwards, there will also be a market featuring over 40 local entrepreneurs, artists, and creatives, running from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. On December 19th, the São Vicente Comedy Club will take place at 9:30 PM. The show will be hosted by Rui Mirama, with special guests Diego Baro, Marcos Bilro, and Miguel Neves. Note that throughout the four days of the event, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, a charity campaign will be held in the form of a food drive for CASA – Center for Homeless Support, collecting non-perishable food items.

Where? Mercado de Santa Clara Market and Botto Machado Garden (São Vicente).

When? December 19 to 22.

How much? Free.

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5. It’s Possible to Live in the Heart of Lisbon in a Historic Building

Who doesn’t dream of living in the city center, in an apartment full of light and surrounded by restaurants, cafés, schools, and pharmacies, all within a five-minute walk? Even better if it’s in a historic building with significant heritage value, renovated and expanded with the comfort and well-being of its occupants in mind. No need to look further: this home exists, and you can already reserve yours.

Located in the Avenidas Novas area, the Bombarda 54 development perfectly fits the concept of the “10-minute city,” providing access to neighborhood life and local shops without needing a car. Not only is the location incredibly central, but the building – currently undergoing rehabilitation and expansion – successfully blends the architectural elements of a 1920s building with elegance and period details, such as noble environments, high ceilings adorned with stucco details, while also offering the comfort of contemporary living.

Designed by the architecture studio Tiago R. Correia Arquitetos, Bombarda 54 offers 14 luxurious apartments with layouts of T2 (2-bedroom) (12 units) and T1 (1-bedroom) (2 units), ranging in size from 79 to 130 square meters, scheduled for completion in the second quarter of 2026. Portugal Sotheby’s International Realty is exclusively responsible for marketing these apartments, with prices starting at €650,000, and is already accepting offers. According to the source, four units were reserved within the first hours of availability. Whether for living or investment, if you’re interested, it’s best to act fast.

Read more from our source here.

6. Portugal among Debt Reduction Champions in the Eurozone

Portugal is one of the top three countries in the Eurozone for reducing its public debt ratio. The European Commission’s forecasts predict a drop from 95.7% in 2024 to 90.5% in 2026, a 5.2 percentage point decrease. This places Portugal alongside Greece and Cyprus as champions of debt reduction, while the Eurozone average will increase slightly to 90% in 2026. Meanwhile, Portugal’s debt remains lower than in 2019, a rare accomplishment among EU countries.

The European Commission forecasts that Greece, Cyprus, and Portugal will see significant reductions in debt ratios, with Greece leading at -10.4 pp. However, some countries like Lithuania, Ireland, and France are projected to see increases, notably Lithuania with a +6.3 pp rise. Brussels predicts that, by 2026, most EU countries will have reduced their debt ratios compared to 2020, with some like Belgium, Spain, and Italy still above 100% of GDP. Portugal’s 44 percentage point reduction is among the largest in the EU.

The growth in revenues relative to GDP is expected to help reduce the EU deficit in 2024, with revenues growing by 0.5 pp and expenditures increasing by only 0.2 pp. Brussels also forecasts that ten EU member states will have a deficit over 3% of GDP in 2024, with some variation in 2025. By 2026, most EU countries, including Portugal, will have fiscal positions better than in 2019, with Cyprus, Ireland, Portugal, and Spain standing out for their improved financial outlook.

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7. Portugal’s Low-Cost Operators Respond to Digi’s Market Entry

Digi, which launched in Portugal in November, undercuts competitors with three-month commitments and mobile plans starting at €4. The Romanian brand has limited mobile coverage in metro tunnels and autonomous regions but offers accumulated data and affordable plans. Fixed internet is priced at €15 with TV available for an additional €15, challenging the status quo. Meanwhile, competitors adjust to match with lower prices and shorter commitments, adding TV to stay competitive.

Uzo (Meo), Woo (Nos), and Amigo (Vodafone) are adjusting offerings, lowering prices and cutting commitment periods. Uzo now offers fiber at €15 for 1 Gbps with six months commitment, plus TV for an additional €15. Amigo, on the other hand, slashes prices, offering mobile plans from €5 and fiber at €15, with a three-month commitment and TV for €7 more, including 60 channels via Android box. The move mirrors Digi’s strategy of three-month contracts but with limited coverage and TV exclusions like SIC channels.

Note that the operator strategies diverge. The low-cost brands respond differently to Digi, with Uzo offering accumulated data on mobile plans and emphasizing TV packages, while Amigo adjusts both pricing and contract terms. Digi’s limited national coverage remains a weak spot, which competitors highlight. As 5G deployment grows in Portugal, Digi’s slow expansion contrasts with Meo, Nos, and Vodafone strengthening their presence, while Woo hints at a future TV service, marking a dynamic shift in the Portuguese telecom market.

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8. New Municipalities Offering Tax Benefits to Startups

There are 14 new municipalities offering tax benefits to startups and scaleups. Coimbra, Braga, and Covilhã are three of them and join what is now a growing list of 22 municipalities in a push for decentralization, territorial cohesion, and regional development. Public policies focused on entrepreneurship aim to attract innovation and talent. Healthy competition between regions fosters local economy growth and positions Portugal as a hub for international startups. The signing of memorandums with Startup Portugal provides tax exemptions, including municipal business tax relief and reduced taxes for businesses and workers.

There are a total of 4,719 startups in Portugal, a 16% increase from last year, with a combined €2.6 billion in revenue. Lisbon (47%) and Porto (15%) lead the way, while coastal districts dominate the startup scene. Though micro-businesses (89%) make up the bulk, the economic impact of startups is significant. One-third of startups engage in international trade, contributing to 58% of their revenue. In contrast, only 11% of the broader business landscape are exporters. Startups outpace the general sector in both growth and job creation.

The growth of startup employment and business revenue far surpasses traditional sectors, with average annual growth of 30% in revenue and 19% in employment between 2020-2023. Startups also pay above-average salaries, averaging €2,000 per employee, 72% higher than the national business average. The push for tax incentives, business development, and attracting international entrepreneurs signals a strong commitment to Portugal’s future as a leader in the startup ecosystem.

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9. The Portuguese ChatGPT

Unbabel, a key partner in the development of Portugal’s ChatGPT, is collaborating with the Portuguese Government, Nova University of Lisbon, and Instituto Superior Técnico to launch the Portuguese Large Language Model (LLM) by early 2025. Built on open-source technology (Tower LLM), it integrates FCCN data to ensure linguistic sovereignty, with Portugal controlling data and avoiding reliance on foreign tech giants. The project’s ambition is clear: preserve cultural identity while meeting national needs. Aiming for public sector efficiency, this initiative seeks to make AI work for Portugal’s future.

EU-backed funding via Euro HPC will inject up to 30 million euros into this cutting-edge initiative, expanding computational capacity significantly. The supercomputer in Barcelona will be central to scaling this project, which will combine national expertise and European resources to create an independent AI ecosystem. This national AI effort is driven by the need for data security and sovereignty, positioning Portugal as a leader in AI innovation with global impact. This model supports the preservation of national data, ensuring that AI technology is homegrown and self-reliant.

Vasco Pedro, founder of Unbabel, emphasizes the importance of a cohesive AI strategy led by the Government, ensuring responsible AI governance. The initiative builds on years of experience in LLM development, with Unbabel’s AI work going back to 2017. Despite challenges, Pedro is confident that the project will meet its ambitious deadline. This involves a strategic move towards creating a national AI hub, overseen by an independent body, with government oversight ensuring long-term success and national control over AI deployment.

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10. Portugal Seems to be Behind in AI and Quantum Computing

Ricardo Martinho, President of IBM Portugal, has stated that while the Portuguese government’s recent announcement of a large language model (LLM) during the Web Summit is a “great initiative,” Portugal is somewhat “behind” in the use of technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing. He highlighted that Spain, for example, already has an LLM in Spanish, developed through a partnership with IBM, and is also home to a quantum computer in the Basque Country. Martinho expressed that he has been advocating for a quantum computing project in Portugal for over a year, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the potential benefits these technologies could bring to the country.

Martinho also pointed out that, although AI has been a key focus for IBM for over 50 years, Portugal is still lagging behind in AI adoption. He noted that only 40% of the large companies IBM works with globally have AI projects in production, with another 41% still in the experimental phase. In Portugal, he believes the situation is worse, citing higher levels of skepticism and a tendency to implement AI without fully rethinking business models. Instead of integrating AI as a core part of operations, many companies are simply layering it over existing processes, which he argues limits its full potential.

Furthermore, Martinho discussed the importance of security and ethical standards in AI, stating that IBM’s Watsonx solution allows companies to use AI while maintaining data privacy and security. He stressed the necessity of incorporating ethical considerations into AI tools to prevent unethical usage. He also pointed to IBM’s commitment to these principles, claiming that if a customer were ever found to be in violation of copyright laws, IBM would cover the resulting fines. According to Martinho, the future of AI depends not only on technological innovation but also on the responsible and ethical development and usage of these tools.

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1. Sintra’s City Hall Forms Orchestras in Prisons

The new project “Orquestras de Sintra” will teach inmates to play musical instruments. The aim is to strengthen the bonds between the prison population and the community. Inmates from the Carregueira and Sintra prisons will join the initiative. This project is based on the “Orquestras Escolares de Sintra” initiative, which involves around 400 students and 15 public schools in the municipality. Its goal is to “strengthen social ties between prisoners and the community by providing artistic, cultural, and educational practices,” according to the Sintra City Hall.

The project will be developed in partnership with IPAV – Instituto Padre António Vieira, which will provide initial training and technical support for the teachers, as well as the design and implementation of programs aimed at developing socio-emotional skills, tailored to each inmate’s context as they prepare for their transition out of prison, as stated on the municipal website.

“By creating orchestras in these new spaces, the local government reinforces its commitment to inclusive projects, using music as a tool for social transformation,” adds the municipal executive in a statement. The inmates will receive three hours of training per week, giving participants “the opportunity to learn to play an instrument from one of the four families of orchestral instruments: strings, woodwinds, brass, and percussion.” The lessons are set to begin on November 18. Note that the intervention model also includes the training of new “trainers, with theoretical-conceptual and theoretical-practical training in the UBUNTU methodology, aimed at the project’s teachers and musicians, prison staff, and inmates.”

Read more from our source here.

2. Thirteen Years of Pensão Amor Celebrated with Erotic Workshops, Performances, and an Escape Room

Thirteen years of breaking taboos and celebrating sexual freedom are being celebrated at Pensão Amor. The venue, located on the pink street of Cais do Sodré, will mark this anniversary with erotic workshops and other free activities from Saturday, November 16, to Sunday, November 17.

On the first day, you can participate in a self-erotism and pleasure workshop with activist Carmo Gê Pereira from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, and learn how to make burlesque drawings with editorial illustrator Nuno Saraiva (who has worked with Time Out and many other media outlets) at 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm. To close, professional massage therapist Ana Nogueira will offer a tantric massage training session from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. On Sunday, November 17, clinical psychologist and trainer Rafaela Rolhas will hold a workshop on masturbation and sex toys from 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm, and Berlin-based artist Hottie de Paris will explore impact play techniques, tools, and tips — a practice associated with BDSM where a person is hit consensually for sexual pleasure or gratification — from 5:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Finally, experienced dancer and instructor Marina Mey will teach a pole dance class. On both days, between 3:00 pm and 8:30 pm, the Erotic Escape Room will take place. Every half-hour, players will be challenged to dive into the lives of three famous courtesans and uncover their most intimate secrets, in search of a valuable artifact. The game will be held in three spaces of Pensão Amor: Madam’s Lodge, Bing Quing’s room, and the Russian’s room. This experience is created by sex coach Rui Simas and is the only event requiring ticket purchase, for €10.

In addition to these activities, there will be several performances throughout the weekend. On Saturday, November 16, after 10:00 pm, performances by Manu De La Roche, Mary Poppers, and Vini Ga Room will take place. On Sunday, November 17, starting at 7:00 pm, Vanity Redfire, Veronique Devine, and Mizz Kat Tigerfell, from the burlesque cabaret troupe Voix Ville, will perform, along with Tandy 3000, Marina Mey, Lucas, and the artistic collective Laboratório.

Where: Rua do Alecrim, 19 (Cais do Sodré).

When: 16-17 Nov (Friday and Saturday).

How much: Free (except for the escape room).

 Read more from our source here.

3. Christmas Market Returns to Baixa de Lisboa Next Week

The Rossio Christmas Market is back this month in Baixa, bringing handcrafted stalls, live music, and an “impressive” exhibition of century-old dolls. A free-access Christmas train will also be available. Organized by the Baixa Pombalina Dynamization Association (ADBP), the event kicks off on November 15th and runs until December 22nd. According to ADBP president Manuel Lopes, the market seeks to evolve each year, adapting to the challenges of commerce and the city, and aims to make a lasting impact on visitors and solidify Lisbon as a festive destination.

This year’s edition will feature 70 artisan stalls offering a variety of goods, including a selection of holiday treats. The traditional Doll Hospital will once again present a stunning collection of antique dolls dating back to the 19th century. The Christmas train, 100% electric, will invite families to embark on a journey through Baixa, accompanied by elves and other characters. The train will operate daily from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM.

The entertainment schedule begins on November 15th with a performance by the band Os Bandalheira and a Christmas parade featuring circus artists, characters, mascots, and a Santa Claus. Other performances throughout the season include university choirs, philharmonic bands, and children’s theater shows, running every weekend between 3:00 PM and 11:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, and until 10:00 PM on Sundays. Santa Claus will also make his usual appearance in Praça D. Pedro IV, inviting children to take photos with him.

Where: Praça D. Pedro IV (Rossio).

When: 15 Nov-22 Nov. Sunday to Thursday 10:00am to 10:00pm, Friday and Saturday (and holiday eve) 10:00am to 11:00pm.

How much: Free.

Read more from our source here.

4. System Rewarding Return of Packaging to Launch in 2026

The Deposit and Refund System (SDR), which gives consumers a symbolic amount for each returned package, is projected to be in place by early 2026, according to Environment Minister Maria da Graça Carvalho. “The license will be issued on November 21, and operations will start in early 2026,” the minister announced on Friday during a hearing before the Assembly of the Republic, concerning the State Budget for 2025.

In April of last year, SDR Portugal, represented by Director-General Miguel Aranda da Silva, anticipated that the network would be operational by 2025. The association expects that more than 3,600 collection points will be established across the country in major retail and wholesale locations, as well as in hotels, restaurants, cafes, and other strategic spots, allowing for the collection of approximately 43,000 tons of packaging annually, or around 2.123 billion units. This includes about 35,000 tons of PET plastic, as well as 8,500 tons of aluminum and steel each year.

Each returned package will yield a refund of 10 cents, according to former Secretary of State for the Environment, Hugo Pires, who served during António Costa’s last term as Prime Minister. Based on this estimate—and considering only packaging up to three liters—this would result in an annual refund total of 213 million euros to consumers. If glass packaging is eventually included in the Unilex system, this amount is estimated to rise to 300 million euros per year, SDR Portugal projects.

Read more from our source here.

5. Long-Term Unemployment in Portugal Surpasses European Average

Data published this Friday by Eurostat reveals that long-term unemployment in the European Union (EU) is at its lowest level since 2009, with a rate of 2.1%. In contrast, Portugal’s long-term unemployment rate exceeds the EU average, reaching 2.5%. “In 2023, the unemployment rate for individuals aged 15 to 74 in the EU dropped to 6.1% of the labor force, the lowest since 2004. The long-term unemployment rate as a percentage of the labor force was 2.1% in 2023, marking a historic low since the beginning of the statistical series in 2009,” emphasized the statistics office in a release published this morning.

But there are significant differences among the EU Member States, as shown on the map below. With a long-term unemployment rate of 6.2%, Greece stood out as the country with the most severe situation, followed by Spain (4.3%) and Italy (4.2%). On the other hand, Denmark and the Netherlands recorded a long-term unemployment rate of 0.5%. Also near the bottom of the list were the Czech Republic and Poland, where this rate was 0.8% of the labor force last year. In Portugal, the long-term unemployment rate was 2.5% in 2023, above the EU average. In fact, Portugal had the fifth-highest rate in the European Union, although it remained significantly (in percentage points) below the top of the list.

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6. Prozis Builds $20 Million Factory in the U.S. to Produce Snacks and Breakfast Cereals

Prozis, the Portuguese sports nutrition company founded by Miguel Milhão, is set to build a new $20 million factory in the United States. The new facility, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2025, will produce functional snacks and breakfast cereals. The factory is expected to create 30 jobs, with operations anticipated to start by the end of next year. Miguel Milhão, who has been at the center of public controversy since 2022 due to statements on abortion, noted that the “goal for a facility like this is to generate between $20 and $40 million annually.”

Founded in 2007 in Póvoa de Lanhoso, Prozis has diversified its business beyond sports nutrition, now producing athletic wear for men and women, cosmetics, and electronics. Miguel Milhão, who stepped down from the CEO role several years ago, became widely known two years ago following controversial statements on abortion shared on social media and his podcast, “Conversas do Karalho.” Since then, both Milhão and his business group have gained significant public recognition.

With approximately 1,500 employees and 10 factories in Portugal, Prozis has built a leading position in the sports nutrition market. According to the company’s website, Prozis is Europe’s leader in online sports nutrition sales. In addition to the U.S. expansion, Prozis is pursuing further investments in Portugal, including a new textile factory and additional food production lines set to launch in 2025. “Our investment plan in Portugal continues, with the establishment of a new textile factory and the launch of new food product lines in 2025,” Milhão added, although he deferred to the company’s CEO, Jorge Silva, for further strategic details.

Read more from our source here.

7. Neemias Queta Scores 14 Points in Second Consecutive Start Despite Celtics’ Loss Against the Warriors

A few days after making his first start, Portuguese player Neemias Queta was once again in the Boston Celtics’ starting lineup, although this time his team fell 112-118 to the Golden State Warriors. For the second consecutive game, Queta started for the Celtics, scoring 14 points in the 118-112 home loss to the Warriors in the NBA. Following his debut as an NBA starter in his fourth year in the league, Queta was once again part of the Celtics’ starting five. He contributed 14 points (making six of 11 field goals and two of four free throws), grabbed eight rebounds—five of them offensive, leading the team in this category—and blocked two shots. “Neemias did a great job securing offensive rebounds, giving us extra possessions,” said Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla. Taking advantage of Latvian player Kristaps Porzingis’ absence due to injury, the Portuguese center set a new career high with 28:09 minutes on the court and scored the game’s first two points with an alley-oop.

In front of U.S. national team coach Steve Kerr, who kept him on the bench for much of the Paris 2024 Olympics, Jayson Tatum led the Celtics with 32 points, while Derrick White also shone, scoring 26 points. For the Warriors, the standout was the ever-reliable Stephen Curry, who, despite being blocked once by Queta, managed 27 points, seven rebounds, and nine assists. This was the Celtics’ second loss in nine games, putting them in second place in the Eastern Conference. Meanwhile, the Warriors, with seven wins and one loss, are third in the Western Conference, tied with the Phoenix Suns (first) and Oklahoma City Thunder (second).

Read more from our source here.

8. Human Trafficking: Seven Arrested and Four Thousand Identified in Portugal in “Largest Operation Ever Conducted”

On Wednesday, Interpol announced the results of its “largest operation ever” against human trafficking, revealing that among the rescued victims were “minors forced to work on farms in Argentina, migrants in nightclubs in North Macedonia, beggars in Iraq, and domestic workers in the Middle East.” The operation, named “Liberterra II,” took place between September 29 and October 4 across 116 countries and territories. A total of 2,517 people were arrested worldwide, 850 of whom were for trafficking, 3,222 potential victims were rescued, and 17,793 immigrants in irregular situations were identified.

“In Portugal, seven people were arrested—one for human trafficking, another for drug trafficking, three for using counterfeit documents, and two for staying in the country illegally,” the Judiciary Police stated. Additionally, 4,203 people were identified, 23 locations were inspected, and six investigations were opened. The Polícia Judiciária coordinated the operation, which included “three home searches in Sacavém, Sines, and Serpa, five inspection actions (two in the Leiria area and three in the Torres Vedras area),” and was supported by the GNR (National Republican Guard) and PSP (Public Safety Police).

“Human and migrant trafficking is increasingly linked to other forms of crime, often using the same criminal networks and routes,” emphasized the International Criminal Police Organization, explaining that this overlap “amplifies the profits and power of organized criminal groups.”

Read more from our source here.

9. Costs for New Housing Construction Rise 3.3% Due to Labor Expenses

New housing construction costs in Portugal rose by 3.3% in September 2024 compared to the same month in the previous year, according to the latest data from the National Institute of Statistics (INE). This increase represents a slight slowdown compared to August, when construction costs recorded an annual rise of 3.8%. “In September 2024, it is estimated that new housing construction costs increased by 3.3% year-on-year, 0.5 percentage points lower than the previous month,” the INE highlighted in its report.

The September increase in construction costs was again driven by a significant rise in labor costs, which grew by 8.5% year-on-year. Meanwhile, material prices showed a slight decrease of 0.6%. According to INE data, labor costs have consistently risen year-on-year since May 2020, reaching their highest increase in January 2023, with a surge of 12.3%. In contrast, material costs have been on a downward trend since May 2022, even entering contraction territory as of April last year, when year-on-year rates turned negative.

Materials with the most negative impact on the overall price variation in September included wood and wood products, other covering materials, insulation and waterproofing, and bitumen, with decreases of around 10%. Conversely, some materials saw significant price increases: “In the opposite direction, notable price increases were observed for limestone and granite tiles, climate control equipment, carpentry, and cement, with year-on-year growth close to 5%,” the INE report noted.

Read more from our source here.

10. Chega Pushes for Constitutional Revision to Remove 80 Deputies from the Assembly of the Republic

The parliamentary group of Chega announced on Sunday that it will propose reopening the constitutional revision process, aiming to reduce the number of deputies in the Assembly of the Republic from 230 to 150, cutting 80 representatives. The party intends to capitalize on the current “significant right-wing majority” in the Assembly to push for what it calls a “surgical revision” of the Constitution.

According to Chega, the proposal will be developed and finalized this week by the party’s 50 deputies, who plan to submit the revision project to Parliament after the approval of the 2025 State Budget, with work on the constitutional changes set to begin in December. The proposed revisions focus on reforms to the political system, including the structure and composition of governmental bodies, transparency rules, immunity, and competencies. Despite the challenges in finding broad political consensus, the party hopes to achieve agreement among the three largest parties for a “modernizing” constitutional reform. This follows Chega’s earlier attempt in 2021, which was rejected by the majority of other parties in the Assembly.

Read more from our source here.