Tens of thousands march in Lisbon over housing, cost of living crisis

The demonstration aligns with actions in France regarding increasing expenses and reduced public services, along with smaller gatherings in Belgium and widespread protests in Albania.

Participants hold signs and flags as thousands march at CGTP-IN decentralized national demonstration to demand higher wages, better pensions, and improved public services from Cais do Sodre to Rossio on October 17, 2026 in Lisbon, Portugal.

(photo credit: Horacio Villalobos#Corbis/Getty Images)

OCTOBER 17, 2026 20:27

Tens of thousands gathered in the heart of Lisbon on Saturday to voice their opposition to the escalating expenses of daily life and a severe housing shortage, putting more strain on the center-right administration.

The leading labor union, CGTP, which organized the event, reported that "many tens of thousands" filled a key thoroughfare in the capital. Authorities did not provide an estimate of the crowd size.

Demonstrators highlight that wages remain insufficient to match housing expenses and the increasing cost of living, making it difficult for many residents to afford necessities in this EU and NATO country.

The rally came after several days of escalating tensions, such as a temporary settlement established by housing advocates in Porto's northern area, which was dismantled by police in an early morning action on Monday.

It occurs alongside demonstrations in France against climbing prices and worsening public services, plus limited protests in Belgium. Additionally, there are large-scale demonstrations in Albania calling for the prime minister to step down.

Inflation in Portugal reached 3.6 percent during September

Inflation in Portugal climbed to 3.6 percent in September, primarily due to higher food and fuel costs, with the latter increasing by 15 percent compared to the previous year amid heightened tensions in the Middle East.

Property values have more than doubled since 2017, and new rental agreements have seen prices nearly double, contributing to one of the most challenging housing affordability situations in Europe.

The pressure is particularly intense in the largest urban centers.

Parliamentary Affairs Minister Carlos Abreu Amorim stated on Friday that the "government will not give in to demands from the streets" and noted that specific actions to tackle these issues are already underway.