Hidden Reality: Slum Areas Still Exist in Greater Lisbon

The Unseen Struggles of Lisbon's Communities

Many remember the shame and discomfort felt when entering Lisbon from the north, only to encounter shantytowns marked by urban decay and poverty. Efforts in the 1990s aimed to counter this trend by creating social housing, which housed thousands but also led to new issues that persist today. Outsiders might think that such areas no longer exist in Lisbon, but the truth is starkly different.

Ongoing Crisis in Almada

While it may not be as visible in Lisbon itself, the Greater Lisbon area, especially Almada, still grapples with informal settlements. Since Inês de Medeiros of the Socialist Party took office in 2017, her administration has struggled to address structural housing issues and the rise of clandestine neighborhoods. The CDU's legacy of neglect over four decades has exacerbated the situation, especially in areas like 2.º Torrão and Terras da Costa.

Inadequate Responses and Human Rights Concerns

Recently, part of the 2.º Torrão neighborhood faced evacuations due to safety concerns. However, the response from the local government was marked by insensitivity and poor planning, leaving families displaced and without support. The Penajóia area stands as a symbol of this incompetence, with its unregulated growth and lack of basic services, like electricity during critical times.

The Need for a New Political Vision

Almada urgently requires a political vision that transcends mere management. The local approach to housing has been insufficient, often leading to the creation of social ghettos rather than genuine community integration. Collaboration between public and private sectors is essential to rehabilitate degraded areas while ensuring dignified living conditions for all residents.

A Broader Issue Across the Region

The situation in Almada reflects similar problems across other municipalities in the Greater Lisbon area, such as Seixal, Loures, and Amadora. The failures of local policies by the PCP and PS have led to a cycle of neglect and incompetence regarding housing dignity. A shift towards political accountability and community empowerment is crucial to reversing this troubling trend.