On 23 September, a ban on face coverings in public spaces entered into force, with the stated aim of improving security by preventing the concealment of faces. While the law does not explicitly target religious clothing and references to Islam in earlier drafts were removed, rights groups have raised concerns about its potential impact on freedom of religion and expression, particularly for Muslim women who wear burqas or niqabs. The ban applies in public spaces and services and at sporting events and demonstrations, with exceptions including places of worship, airports and diplomatic premises, as well as health, professional or artistic purposes. Violations carry fines of EUR 150 to EUR 3,000, while forcing someone to cover their face through threats, violence, coercion or abuse of authority could result in up to two years’ imprisonment or a fine.

Sources: Diário da República, The Portugal News, Amnesty International, International IDEA

On 12 June, Parliament elected four new judges to the Constitutional Court with the required two-thirds majority, filling all vacant seats and ending a deadlock that had delayed appointments for nearly two years. The vacancies had accumulated as political parties failed to reach the consensus required to appoint judges to the 13-member court, including after the resignation of Constitutional Court President José João Abrantes in May. The agreement restored the Court to full membership and ensured the continued functioning of the country's highest body for constitutional review, which is responsible for assessing whether laws and government actions comply with the Constitution.

Sources: The Portugal Post, Diário de Notícias, RTP Notícias (1), RTP Notícias (2)

On 8 February, Portugal held the second round of its presidential election after no candidate secured an absolute majority in the first round on 18 January. António José Seguro, backed by the Socialist Party, defeated Chega’s André Ventura with 66.8 per cent of the vote and will become the country’s next president. This was only the second runoff in the country’s democratic history, and the first since 1986. Turnout was 52.3 per cent in the first round and 50 per cent in the second, higher than the 39.3 per cent recorded in the past 2021 presidential election, which was decided in a single round.

Sources: Politico, International IDEA, LUSA - Agência de Notícias de Portugal

Voter turnout in the first round of the presidential election, held on 18 January, reached 52.3 per cent, the highest level in 15 years. This marked an increase from the previous three presidential elections, when turnout stood at 39.3 per cent in 2021, 48.7 per cent in 2016 and 46.5 per cent in 2011. In the 2026 runoff, held on 8 February, turnout remained comparatively high at 50 per cent.

Sources: Politico, International IDEA, LUSA - Agência de Notícias de Portugal

On 12 February, legislation that would  require children aged 13 to 16 to obtain parental consent to access social media, with platforms required to introduce age-verification systems, passed its first reading and will continue through the legislative process.The proposal would also reinforce existing restrictions preventing children under 13 from accessing social media. The proposed restrictions are intended to strengthen protections for minors online. However, observers have raised concerns about their potential impact on young people’s ability to participate in online spaces and access to information, including possible implications for their freedom of expression. The bill remains under parliamentary consideration and has not yet been enacted.

Sources: Reuters, SIC Noticias, Observador

On 11 December, the first major general strike in over a decade took place in Portugal. Organized by the country’s main labor unions, the strike mobilized approximately three million workers, representing 60 per cent of the workforce, according to organizers. Participants protested against a proposed labour reform, which they fear could increase employment insecurity by making dismissals easier, facilitating outsourcing, and restricting certain forms of compassionate leave. The strike mainly disrupted transport, education, healthcare and public administration services, impacting daily life across the country. Some limited clashes between security forces and protestors took place, with a total of six people arrested. 

Sources: El País, Euronews, Diário de Notícias, Observador