
The interior of Portugal faces several challenges, such as demographic decline, population aging, desertification and low economic dynamism, but, at the same time, it has enormous potential.
It is extremely urgent that the government and civil society adopt effective measures to promote the development of the interior of Portugal. It is full of words and beautiful plans that are not executed or that, when they are, present insignificant results. It is necessary to create conditions that attract and fix the population, through investments in infrastructure, education, health, culture and promotion.
The interior of Portugal has enormous potential that needs to be further valued and explored. Its natural and cultural wealth is unique, with a rich and diverse architectural heritage, and high quality agri-food products. In addition, it offers a quieter and safer pace of life, as well as a lower cost of living compared to coastal areas, and can and should be an engine of economic and social development.
Encouraging the development of the interior of Portugal is not only a matter of social justice, but also an economic need for the country. A strong and prosperous interior can contribute to territorial cohesion, economic diversification and sustainable development.
There are several measures that can be implemented or improved that will have a very positive impact on the development of the interior of Portugal. Some of the measures that I consider most important include:
Support and promote entrepreneurship: It is important to create an environment conducive to entrepreneurship in the interior. For this, tax incentives, support for professional training and qualification, facilitation of access to credit, as well as support for associations and organizations that promote entrepreneurship in the region can be implemented. This will help create new jobs and boost the local economy.
Promote tourism: Tourism is one of the most important sectors of economic activity in the interior of Portugal. It is important to promote tourism and invest in the qualification of the tourist offer. The promotion must be permanent and in collaboration with local entities. Tourism is an important source of development for inland communities.
Fixing the young population: It is important to create conditions so that young people can live and work in the interior of Portugal. This can be done through investment in education and health, the promotion of culture and leisure and the creation of employment opportunities.
Investing in infrastructure: It is essential to invest in basic infrastructures, such as roads, railways, internet and telecommunications. This will facilitate the mobility of people and goods, as well as attract investment to the region.
Improve public services: Ensure that people in the interior have access to quality public services, such as health, education and safety. This will help improve people’s quality of life, making them more likely to stay in their communities.
Valuing local products: Promote the production and consumption of local products, such as food and handicrafts. It will contribute to strengthening the local economy and preserving the culture and identity of the interior.
I continue in my teimosis, I think that promoting the development of the interior of Portugal is a challenge, but it is also an opportunity. All investments made in the interior regions will create a more prosperous and sustainable future for the whole country.
I have a special passion for the interior of Portugal. I was born and raised in Mértola, I worked in Beja and I still have family, professional and emotional roots there. Currently, I develop several projects that contribute to the progress of the inland regions and I live in the first person their challenges, opportunities and the enormous potential that is clearly underexploited and needs to be better exploited.