Portuguese President Calls for Democratic Renewal

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Translation

President Marcelo, in his New Year’s address, emphasised the significance of "common sense" and "institutional solidarity" in Portugal. He underscored the protection of freedom and democracy, tackling issues like poverty. He also highlighted the importance of cooperation between the European Union and the United States, as well as the need to fortify democracy in local elections.

Exercise: Text comprehension

Question 1: What did President Marcelo mention as important elements in his New Year's speech?

He mentioned the importance of 'good sense' and 'institutional solidarity' in Portugal.

Question 2: What international collaboration did President Marcelo emphasize in his speech?

He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the European Union and the United States.

Exercise: Vocabulary

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▌02/01/2025

In a New Year message that has sparked a variety of reactions across Portugal's political spectrum, President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa addressed the nation with calls for "common sense" and "institutional solidarity". He emphasized the need to protect Portugal's freedom and democracy, acknowledging that the country faces enduring challenges that the current democratic regime has yet to solve, notably poverty.

President Rebelo de Sousa marked the 50-year anniversary of the 25th of April Revolution, highlighting the importance of learning from the past rather than repeating it. His address underlined the need for democratic renewal in Portugal to address the "fundamental problems" that persist, urging the country to utilize the upcoming local elections as a way to reinforce democratic engagement.

Besides domestic challenges, Rebelo de Sousa also focused on fostering a strong alliance between the European Union (EU) and the United States, stressing that less cooperation between them could benefit Russia and China. He encouraged the EU to develop its own military strength and address its economic and political weaknesses, in pursuit of establishing itself as a global power.

Portuguese President Calls for Democratic Renewal (Illustration)

Responses from political parties varied; many highlighted areas they felt were missing from the president’s address. Parties across the spectrum, from the Chega to the Iniciativa Liberal, criticized the absence of discussion on health, security, and state reform. Leaders from the Bloco de Esquerda and Portuguese Communist Party (PCP) were particularly concerned about socio-economic issues like health, education, and housing.

The Socialist Party (PS) acknowledged the president's calls for "common sense" but questioned the government's capacity to address the challenges cited by Rebelo de Sousa. Meanwhile, members of the Social Democratic Party (PSD) saw "harmony" between the president’s message and their own policy positions, especially around economic growth and poverty reduction.

The president’s call for enhanced institutional cooperation was supported by the People-Animals-Nature (PAN) Party, who agreed on the necessity of closer collaboration not only between the President and the Prime Minister but extending to Parliament as well. Some, however, expressed concerns that this focus on cooperation might dilute the scrutiny needed in governance, urging Rebelo de Sousa to maintain pressure on the government for effective policy-making.

As the year progresses, the diverse reactions to the president’s message highlight the ongoing debate in Portugal about how to best navigate a rapidly changing national and international landscape.

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