Portugal prepares to expel 18,000 unauthorized foreigners ahead of elections

In Portugal, the caretaker government has announced plans to expel approximately 18,000 foreigners living in the country without authorization. This move, outlined by Minister of the Presidency António Leitão Amaro, comes as the country prepares for an early general election scheduled for May 18. The government intends to issue notifications to individuals believed to be in the country illegally, with a focus on an initial group of about 4,500 foreigners being asked to leave voluntarily within a 20-day period. The decision has been communicated strongly given the political context, where Prime Minister Luis Montenegro's government lost a confidence vote in March, prompting the snap election. This expulsion plan is viewed by some analysts as an effort to bolster support for the center-right ruling party in the face of electoral challenges. The government's actions reflect ongoing debates within Portugal regarding immigration policy and the treatment of foreign nationals residing without legal status. Analysts and politicians are keenly observing how these expulsions might affect voter sentiment and influence the outcome of the upcoming elections. Resistance from social and human rights organizations is anticipated, as they often argue against such mass deportations based on humanitarian grounds. The conditions under which these foreigners were living and the potential ramifications of the expulsion on affected individuals and families are significant points for discussion as the elections draw near. Overall, this move encapsulates broader political tensions and societal divides over immigration in Portugal, presenting both risks and opportunities for the ruling party.