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.
Low-cost carrier Ryanair has added three new routes to its Porto airport operations for the summer 2027 schedule. The airline is launching 29 new connections in total.
A proposal negotiated between the PSD and PS suggests that domestic violence victims must file criminal complaints and accept contact restrictions to qualify for full parental subsidies. The measure aims to improve victim protection.
Following the dismissal of the Secretary-General of Internal Administration, conflicting versions of the events have emerged. This remains a topic of political discussion.
The Santa Casa da Misericórdia de Alenquer has opened a new nursery facility following a €4 million investment. The center aims to provide accessible and local childcare for families in the region.
Spanish King Felipe VI is visiting Ceuta to meet with local authorities and community leaders. This trip marks a significant return for the Spanish monarchy to the North African territory.
The IMF has revised its GDP growth forecast for Portugal to 2.1% for 2026 and 1.9% for 2027. Inflation is also projected to moderate, with estimates now settling at 3%.
From the Founder
Portugal-curious news and reflections, as spotted by Carl Munson — lifted fresh from the blog.
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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."
Book a Conversation with Carl