Portugal has recently faced a period of significant political instability, marked by frequent legislative elections that have hindered the government’s ability to implement long-term policies. In 2019, the Socialist Party (PS) won the general elections but lacked an absolute majority, leading to governance challenges. The situation culminated in 2022 when the Prime Minister called snap elections, securing a rare absolute majority. However, this stability was short-lived. In 2023, allegations of corruption led to the Prime Minister’s resignation, triggering yet another early election in March 2024. 

Now, just days away from the new government stepping down, Portugal is once again on the verge of political uncertainty, further delaying essential reforms and economic progress. This cycle of instability raises critical concerns about the functionality of the Portuguese parliamentary system and the legal mechanisms that regulate government stability.

Portugal operates under a semi-presidential system where the government is formed based on parliamentary support. The President has the power to dissolve Parliament and call for new elections, but this decision must consider the principles of democratic stability and institutional continuity. The frequent dissolution of Parliament, while constitutionally valid, creates governance paralysis, delaying crucial legislative initiatives and economic reforms.
 

Furthermore, the Constitution states that the Prime Minister is appointed by the President, considering electoral results and parliamentary support. However, in practice, fragmented parliaments and shifting alliances make governance increasingly fragile, leading to frequent political deadlocks and instability.

From a legal and institutional standpoint, constant legislative elections undermine:

• Policy Continuity: Frequent elections prevent governments from implementing long-term strategies, as policies are often interrupted or reversed due to political shifts. This affects crucial sectors such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure development.
• Legislative Efficiency: Parliamentary dissolution suspends legislative work, delaying key reforms and laws. Additionally, caretaker governments, which function between elections, have limited powers, further weakening governance.
• Investor Confidence and Economic Growth: Political uncertainty discourages foreign and domestic investment. Businesses require predictable regulatory environments, and instability in governance leads to market volatility and reduced economic confidence.
• Public Trust in Democratic Institutions: Voter fatigue and repeated electoral processes can lead to disillusionment with the democratic system, increasing abstention rates and fostering populist movements that capitalize on political uncertainty.

To mitigate the negative effects of political instability, Portugal could consider legal and constitutional reforms, such as:

• Regulating Snap Elections: Introducing stricter conditions for dissolving Parliament could prevent political actors from leveraging elections for strategic gains.
• Enhancing Presidential Mediation Powers: The President could be granted a stronger role in facilitating coalition-building before resorting to dissolving Parliament.

While democratic systems must allow for government accountability, excessive political instability disrupts governance, economic growth, and public trust. Portugal’s recent experience highlights the need for a legal debate on how to balance democratic responsiveness with institutional stability. Implementing reforms to prevent unnecessary electoral cycles could ensure that governments have the necessary conditions to govern effectively and deliver long-term progress.