Thousands protest for housing rights outside Parliament

Thousands of protesters occupied the area in front of the Assembly of the Republic on the first day of the 2027 State Budget debate. According to reporting by RTP, the gathering included people who pitched tents at the site, signalling an intention to maintain a prolonged presence during the budget voting process.

The protests were part of a broader movement for the right to housing. The massive turnout reflected concerns from multiple groups over housing issues in the country, with demonstrators remaining assembled as the budget debate proceeded in parliament.

As the day progressed, the situation regarding any encampment remained under review. According to RTP reporting, the protest organisers were still assessing whether an overnight camp would be established in front of the Assembly, with some demonstrators having brought tents, but organisers still evaluating security conditions.

However, according to Observador, the decision was taken in a Popular Assembly vote against proceeding with the overnight protest. The demonstrators therefore did not remain at the site overnight.

The demonstration took place at a critical moment for approval of the 2027 State Budget, drawing public attention to housing issues as parliament debated the budget proposal.

The presence of thousands of people outside parliament demonstrated social mobilisation around housing policies, with demonstrators using the occasion of the budget debate to express their demands.