This opinion article by Jorge Queiroz explores the demographic evolution of Portugal and the Iberian Peninsula over the centuries. The text analyzes from the first Neolithic settlements, through the Roman and Muslim periods, to the formation of the Kingdom of Portugal, highlighting milestones such as the first general census of 1527 (1.1 million inhabitants), the doubling of the population in the 19th century (from 3 to 6 million) and the doubling again during the 20th century (from 5.4 to 10.6 million). The author alerts to Portugal's current demographic challenges, including aging, low birth rates (only 1.4 children per woman, when the replacement rate is 2.1) and the reversal of migratory flows, transforming Portugal from a country of emigrants to a receiver of foreign workers, who represent approximately 14% of the total population.
Postal do Algarve11/09/26, 12:30
