Portugal faces rising poverty and social exclusion risks

Recent data from the National Institute of Statistics indicates that poverty and social exclusion remain significant challenges in Portugal. In 2025, approximately 18.6% of the population, totaling nearly 2 million people, was at risk of poverty or social exclusion.

Indicators show that 10.2% of the population experiences material and social deprivation, while roughly 15.6% live in housing that cannot be adequately heated. The economic burden of housing, energy, and essential goods significantly impacts family budgets. Vulnerability is observed across various demographics, including the unemployed, who face a 42.6% poverty risk, and employed individuals, who face an 8.6% risk. Other affected groups include single-parent families, the elderly living alone, and young adults struggling for autonomy.