[Portugal] Tens of thousands protest proposed labour reforms

In Lisbon, Portugal, tens of thousands of people took to the streets on November 8 to protest the government’s labour reforms, City News reports.

The protest, organised by the country’s main labour union, was to oppose an overhaul of labour laws which Prime Minister Luis Montenegro’s government claims are aimed at improving productivity and flexibility in the job market. 

Opponents reportedly want the package withdrawn, saying it threatens workers’ rights. Demonstrators carried posters that read “No to the labour package” and called for higher wages.

The reforms would make worker dismissals easier and include further controversial elements, such as a limit on how long breastfeeding women can claim a flexible work schedule and a reduction of miscarriage bereavement leave.

Portugal’s current minimum wage is €870 (around $1,007) per month. Protesters carried signs calling for an increase to €1,050 ($1,214) in 2026.

The prime minister heads a minority government in the European Union nation of 10.6 million people. The bill must now progress to parliament, where it is expected to pass with the support of Chega, the far-right and largest opposition party.

The protest’s organisers have reportedly announced a general strike for December 11.

Source: City News

In Lisbon, Portugal, tens of thousands of people took to the streets on November 8 to protest the government’s labour reforms, City News reports.

The protest, organised by the country’s main labour union, was to oppose an overhaul of labour laws which Prime Minister Luis Montenegro’s government claims are aimed at improving productivity and flexibility in the job market. 

Opponents reportedly want the package withdrawn, saying it threatens workers’ rights. Demonstrators carried posters that read “No to the labour package” and called for higher wages.

The reforms would make worker dismissals easier and include further controversial elements, such as a limit on how long breastfeeding women can claim a flexible work schedule and a reduction of miscarriage bereavement leave.

Portugal’s current minimum wage is €870 (around $1,007) per month. Protesters carried signs calling for an increase to €1,050 ($1,214) in 2026.

The prime minister heads a minority government in the European Union nation of 10.6 million people. The bill must now progress to parliament, where it is expected to pass with the support of Chega, the far-right and largest opposition party.

The protest’s organisers have reportedly announced a general strike for December 11.

Source: City News