In Lisbon, on a sunny day, around 3,000 people came out for a protest. This protest against uncontrolled immigration was organized by the right-wing political party CHEGA. Their message was about the need to control immigration in Portugal. The Salvar Portugal (Save Portugal) rally announced a new moment in Portuguese politics. Immigration has become a growing issue for many, and this event reflected that concern.
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CHEGA Leads Protest Against Uncontrolled Immigration
The main idea of the protest was clear. CHEGA does not want to stop immigration completely but it does want it controlled.
Party leader André Ventura said:
It is a historic demonstration, in the sense that it is the first time in Portugal’s history that a large movement has taken to the streets to say that it doesn’t want to put an end to immigration, but to control immigration. I hope the government, I hope Parliament, I hope the country realises that if they don’t stop in time, we won’t either. This movement will not stop growing
According to Ventura, Portugal’s immigrant population is between 10-15%, and he believes that number is too high. He stressed that his party does not oppose all immigration. Instead, CHEGA wants to make sure that immigration fits the country’s needs.
Ventura said:
Portugal is experiencing uncontrolled immigration. We currently have an immigrant population of between 10-15%. It’s a figure that surpasses even historic immigration countries in Europe and the (previous) Socialist government, as well as this government, show no intention of changing this policy (…) that’s why the people have to take to the streets
He suggested a system where the Portuguese Parliament sets yearly quotas to regulate how many immigrants can come based on the economy’s needs. He contended that this approach will guarantee that Portugal will only accept the number of immigrants that are required for its labor force.
One of Ventura’s most controversial comments was his request for more strict regulation of immigration crime. He argues that Portugal’s current laws are too flexible and that stricter regulations are required to ensure security.
Ventura said:
Anyone who commits offences in Portugal, being an immigrant, has only one path: deportation
Increasing Immigration in Portugal
Portugal has long been known as a welcoming country. Over the years, people from Brazil, Africa, and Eastern Europe have moved there.
However, immigration has increased significantly in recent years. Government statistics show that the foreign population in Portugal grew by 33% last year. Over one million immigrants are now living legally in the whole country and the majority of them come to work in agriculture, construction, and tourism.
Supporters of immigration say it is important for Portugal’s economy. There are fewer young workers available for the labor force due to the low birth rate and aging population in the country. The vacancies will be filled partially by immigrants, increasing the population of working age.
According to the reports presented by the government:
The foreign population in Portugal increased by around 33% last year, totalling more than one million immigrants living legally in the country.
The most of immigrants in Portugal are between the ages of 25 and 44. They are an important asset to the economy. They also contribute to the social security system which benefits older generations.
However, immigration has created some challenges. Ventura pointed out that the rise in immigration has put pressure on public services like healthcare and housing. Hospitals have become crowded and rents have increased significantly in major cities like Lisbon and Porto.
Due to these problems, some people started blaming immigrants. This has increased sentiments against immigrants and increased support for CHEGA.
Public Response To CHEGA’s Immigration Protest
The Salvar Portugal protest was not ignored by criticism. CHEGA supporters came up in large numbers but there was a counter demonstration by anti fascist groups.
These groups feel CHEGA’s immigration policies are harmful and unfair. They claim that the party uses immigration as an easy target for serious problems.
Ventura said:
I expect respect from everyone. Both those who came to our demonstration, but also those on the other side
Disputes broke out when the two parties came together. Police were on high alert and in big numbers to guarantee the security of everyone. Two people have been arrested but the protests were mainly peaceful.
The leader of the far-right group 1143, Mário Machado was also present at the protest. Machado and his supporters stood away from the main CHEGA protest but they had similar objectives.
They were screaming Portugal is ours and will be. The discussion about the rise of right-wing movements in Portugal was due to his presence.
Amnesty International is concerned about the emergence of far-right views. They also sent reporters to the protest to judge the situation.
While CHEGA says it is a normal political party. But its connection with people like Machado has caused some to question its goals. Many consider CHEGA as part of a greater far-right movement that is growing across Europe.
Increase In Nationalism Across Europe
CHEGA’s growth in Portugal is not a rare incident. Across Europe, nationalist and anti immigrant parties have gained popularity. For example in Austria, the right-wing Freedom Party leads the polls and is expected to win the next election.
People in countries with high immigration rates are becoming more concerned about how immigration is impacting their views of national identity and economy, which is a trend that has been especially clear in these countries.
Ventura added:
Either we put an end to this or one day there will be no country that survives and there are no borders that survive. Today is the first time, as I say, that we’ve seen thousands of people on the streets of Lisbon defending this
For immigrants, the rise of these parties is concerning. Many fear stricter immigration laws and a less welcoming environment.
Radio Free Europe recently reported that immigrants in Austria are afraid of the Freedom Party coming to power. A similar situation could arise in Portugal if CHEGA continues to grow in influence.
Portugal faces challenges with its aging population, economic needs, and the pressure immigration places on public services. CHEGA believes that controlling immigration is the answer but this viewpoint remains controversial.
Ventura said:
This movement will not stop growing
The issues pointed out will now need to be addressed by the government and other political parties, and how they are handled will determine Portugal’s future. This protest against uncontrolled immigration in Lisbon was important for both CHEGA and Portugal.
