Tens of thousands in Portugal protest proposed labor reforms

Tens of thousands of people took to the streets in Lisbon on Saturday to protest the labor reform package proposed by the government of Portuguese Prime Minister Luis Montenegro.

Demonstrators carried posters reading “No to the labor package” and called for a monthly minimum wage of 1,050 euros ($1,214) in 2026.

The protest was organized by the country’s main labor union against the overhaul, which the government said was aimed at improving productivity and flexibility in the labor market. Opponents want the package withdrawn and say it threatens workers’ rights.

Contentious elements include limiting the time breastfeeding women can request a flexible work schedule and reducing miscarriage and bereavement leave. The reforms will also make it easier to fire workers.

Portugal’s current minimum wage stands at 870 euros (about $1,007) per month.

Montenegro, who leads the centre-right Democratic Alliance, heads a minority government in the European Union nation of 10.6 million people. If approved, the bill will be sent to parliament, where it is expected to pass with the votes of the far-right Chega, the largest opposition party.

Organizers of Saturday’s protest declared a general strike on December 11.