On September 29, 2024, Lisbon witnessed a significant protest organized by the Chega party against what they termed “uncontrolled immigration.” Concurrently, pro-inclusion movements also took to the streets, leading to a tense atmosphere and police intervention. The event highlighted the growing divide in Portuguese society regarding immigration policies.

Overview of the Protests

The Chega party, known for its right-wing stance, organized a demonstration in Lisbon to voice concerns over immigration policies. André Ventura, the party leader, described the event as a historic moment, emphasizing the need for stricter immigration controls. He stated that the protest was not against immigration per se, but rather a call for regulation and oversight.

The protest began at around 4 PM, with participants gathering in the Alameda area, waving flags and chanting slogans such as “Not one more illegal immigrant” and “Enough of the chaos.” Ventura claimed that the turnout was unprecedented, marking a significant moment in Portugal’s political landscape.

In response to the Chega demonstration, various pro-inclusion groups organized a counter-protest under the banner “They Will Not Pass.” This gathering aimed to advocate for immigrant rights and challenge the narratives presented by Chega. The police had anticipated potential clashes and deployed a significant number of officers to maintain order.

Despite these precautions, tensions escalated, resulting in at least two arrests. Participants from both sides expressed their views passionately, with some Chega supporters insisting that their stance was not rooted in racism but rather in concerns over national resources and security.