Successful Integration & Positive Impact
Representation · Integration · Vision
The Context
Foreign residents now make up over 14% of Portugal's population - more than 1.5 million people, that's around 1 in 7 of the national community. We contribute billions in revenue to the social system, build businesses, raise families, and invest our lives here. Yet - in good times and bad - there is no single, unifying and authoritative voice at the country's stakeholder negotiating table.
Until now.
01
We hope to sit at the table where decisions are made — lobbying government, engaging AIMA, and giving every foreign resident the sense of 'a seat in the civic conversation'.
02
We intend to build bridges between communities and institutions, making Portugal characteristically welcoming at every administrative, cultural, and social level.
03
We will look beyond any immediate crises to respectfully help shape a Portugal where diversity is a national strength - economically, socially, and politically.
Our Coalition
Uniting communities from every country who have made Portugal their home.
Representing the economic contribution of skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and businesses.
Honoring the diverse spiritual communities that enrich Portugal's social fabric.
Amplifying the voice of civil society organisations working on the ground.
Portuguese citizens who share our vision of a tradition-respecting, win-win Portugal.
A Taste of the Conversation
Foreign-focused headlines spotted by Carl — a glimpse of the stories shaping life for foreigners in Portugal.
A military coalition has reported intercepting Houthi-launched drones and missiles aimed at Saudi Arabia. The incident marks an escalation in regional tensions following the Houthis' declared naval blockade.
A documentary detailing an innovative surgical procedure performed at Lisbon’s Alfredo da Costa Maternity Hospital has won three awards at Cannes. The film highlights the medical achievements of Dr. Álvaro Cohen’s team.
The White House has restricted CNN from traveling on the presidential aircraft as part of the media pool. This move is consistent with the current administration's increasingly aggressive stance toward certain press outlets.
Deputy António Mendonça Mendes has dismissed the possibility of internal PS conflict, despite recent comments by former finance minister Mário Centeno. The discussion focuses on political stability within the socialist party.
Former President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa was honored by foreign correspondents for his accessible communication style. During the event, he reflected on his lifelong relationship with the press.
The Attorney General's Office has launched an inquiry following the deaths of four elderly residents at a nursing home in Estremoz due to an outbreak of Influenza A. Twenty-five other residents are currently symptomatic.
From the Founder
Portugal-curious news and reflections, as spotted by Carl Munson — lifted fresh from the blog.
No blog posts found yet — check back soon.
Get Involved
Add your name to the register of founding supporters. Your details will never be shared. We will contact you occasionally to update you on project progress.
The Movement So Far
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Founding Supporters
Representing 29 nationalities · Most active region: Centro
Voices of the Network
Foreign residents share what Portugal means to them — listen to their stories, in their own voices.
“What I love about life in Portugal is the calmness, above all. Life in Portugal is grounded — it comes through in their music, their food, the family connections.”
Bob Wenger
American, living in Portugal
“I've been here 30 years and they still know I'm not from here. But community here means the lady next door brought me Coca-Cola at 10 o'clock at night when I was sick.”
Lidia
South African, 30 years in Portugal
“If Portugal was a person, it would be the welcoming grandmother that welcomes you with cups of tea and sandwiches and cakes and olive oil and wine. It's like coming home after being away for a long time.”
Mama Bear McGowan
Reverend, immigrant in Portugal
Carl · Founder & Coordinator
A Word from the Founder
After nearly ten years in Portugal - loving the life I have built here with my family - it still comes as a surprise to me that there is no obvious focal point for the country's rapidly-growing foreign population.
I have decided to assess the feasibility of such an organisation over the next few months that brings together individuals, organisations, companies, and Portuguese allies to not only fill the gap, but make a positive difference.
The network (working title) is not built from frustration. Whilst there are challenges that might be better addressed collectively, the overall aim - as I see it - is to honour the culture we are delighted to call home, and add to it - respectfully and sensitively.
"This, if it works, will be a win-win for all concerned, foreign and native, who have a stake in a positive, pro-active future."
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