Population figures
Total country population
10,223,348
Forcibly displaced population
Refugees (under UNHCR's mandate):
65,194
Asylum-seekers:
2,158
IDPs (of concern to UNHCR):
0
Other people in need of international protection:
0
Other
Statelessness persons
0
Host community
0
Others of concern to UNHCR
0
Country context
Portugal, located in Southern Europe on the Iberian Peninsula, has a well-established asylum system that aims to maintain a positive protection environment while facilitating the integration of refugees into society.
Portugal’s refugee population consists of individuals from various countries. These individuals are typically hosted in urban areas, with a focus on integrating refugees into local communities rather than relying solely on reception centers. In recent years, the country has also been an active participant in international solidarity mechanisms, including resettlement and EU relocation programs, which contribute to the growing number of refugees seeking protection in Portugal.
...The asylum system in Portugal, while largely positive, faces challenges related to increasing numbers of asylum applications, with an emphasis on ensuring the efficiency, fairness, and accessibility of the process. There is a particular focus on the identification of persons with special needs, child protection, and the monitoring of asylum procedures.
The legal and policy framework in Portugal is inclusive, with increasing efforts to ensure that refugees are integrated into national systems. Refugees in Portugal are granted access to social, health, and educational services, with many enjoying rights similar to those of nationals. However, the integration process requires continuous efforts to address challenges such as capacity limitations, lack of affordable housing, and barriers to employment. Moreover, strengthening the role of local actors, such as municipalities and civil society organizations, is seen as essential for successful integration and participation in decision-making processes at both national and local levels.
As of 2023, a reform of the migration and asylum system was underway, with an emphasis on improving the integration framework and ensuring better coordination among public stakeholders and local entities. The transition process is expected to continue into 2024 and beyond, in line with the government’s evolving priorities in refugee protection and integration.
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