What is Portugal?
Portugal is a Southern European country located on the Iberian Peninsula, bordered by Spain to the east and north and the Atlantic Ocean to the west and south. Known for its rich maritime history, cultural heritage, and beautiful landscapes, Portugal is a member of the European Union and NATO. Lisbon is the capital and largest city.
Administrative Divisions
Portugal is divided into 18 districts and 2 autonomous regions: the Azores and Madeira.
Currency Details
- Currency Name: Euro (EUR)
- Symbol: €
- Subunit: 1 EUR = 100 cents
- Central Bank: Banco de Portugal
Type of Government
Portugal is a semi-presidential representative democratic republic. The President is the head of state, while the Prime Minister is the head of government. The Portuguese Parliament (Assembleia da República) is a unicameral legislature.
Detailed Hierarchy of Government Roles
Executive Branch Hierarchy
| Position | Role Description | Power & Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| President | Head of State | Represents the country internationally, oversees defense, and has veto power on laws. |
| Prime Minister | Head of Government | Leads the government, implements policy, and coordinates the Cabinet. |
| Ministers | Heads of government departments (e.g., Finance, Foreign Affairs) | Oversee specific governmental departments and advise the Prime Minister. |
Legislative Branch Hierarchy
| Position | Role Description | Power & Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Portuguese Parliament | Assembleia da República (unicameral) | Enacts laws, approves the budget, and oversees the government. |
| President of the Parliament | Presides over legislative sessions | Ensures order during debates and manages legislative procedures. |
Judicial Branch Hierarchy
| Position | Role Description | Power & Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Supreme Court | Highest judicial authority in Portugal | Resolves disputes and interprets constitutional law. |
| Constitutional Court | Reviews laws to ensure they comply with the constitution | Declares laws unconstitutional if needed. |
| District Courts | Handle civil, criminal, and administrative cases | First-instance courts for general cases. |
International Memberships
- European Union (EU)
- NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization)
- United Nations (UN)
- World Trade Organization (WTO)
Military Structure
Portugal has a well-equipped and modern military, integrated into NATO’s defense system.
- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force
- Special Forces: Comandos (Army), Fuzileiros (Marines)
Secret Agencies
- Agência Portuguesa de Inteligência (APAI): National intelligence agency responsible for domestic and foreign intelligence operations.
Stock Markets
- Lisbon Stock Exchange (Euronext Lisbon): The primary stock exchange in Portugal.
- Major Indexes: PSI-20
- Analyzed by: Economists, financial analysts, and market experts.
Emergency Numbers
- General Emergency: 112
- Police: 112
- Fire: 112
- Medical Emergency: 112
SWOT Analysis of Portugal
Strengths
- Strong tourism sector, attracting millions of visitors annually.
- High quality of life and rich cultural heritage.
- Member of the EU with access to economic resources.
Weaknesses
- High public debt and financial dependency on EU funds.
- Unemployment rates, especially among youth.
- Economic challenges in rural areas.
Opportunities
- Growth in renewable energy sector.
- Expansion of digital economy and tech startups.
- Enhanced trade partnerships within the EU.
Threats
- Vulnerability to global economic fluctuations.
- Aging population leading to labor shortages.
- Regional instability in surrounding areas.
Additional Information
- Official Language: Portuguese
- Time Zone: Western European Time (WET) / Western European Summer Time (WEST)
- National Anthem: “A Portuguesa”