Why Did April 25th Change Labour Rights in Portugal Forever?
The 25th of April 1974 was not just the end of a dictatorship — it marked the beginning of a fairer country, where the dignity of workers became a national priority.
With the approval of the Portuguese Constitution in 1976, work with rights became a pillar of democracy. The labour rights that followed deeply transformed the job market and gave rise to many of the guarantees we now take for granted.
This article, published in the spirit of the 50th anniversary of the April Revolution, clearly and accessibly presents the 6 major labour rights achieved after the revolution — and how they continue to shape the lives of millions of Portuguese workers.
6 Labour Rights Achieved in Portugal After April 25
1. Freedom of Union and the Right to Strike
Before the April Revolution, workers in Portugal lived under a repressive regime, with no freedom to organise or demand better conditions. Trade unions were state-controlled, and strikes were practically banned.
The 1976 Constitution changed everything: freedom of union and the right to strike became fundamental rights.
This allowed workers to freely create and join unions, organise collectively, and defend their rights without fear of retaliation.
Since then, strikes by public servants, teachers or healthcare professionals have become legitimate forms of protest. Unions like CGTP and Fenprof now play an active role in defending workers’ rights.
➡️ For more details on worker rights, consult this complete guide.
2. Collective Bargaining
Collective bargaining is one of the most important gains post-April 25 and remains essential in protecting workers’ rights.
It allows unions and employers’ associations to jointly negotiate labour conditions — salaries, working hours, bonuses, holidays — which apply to all workers in a given sector.
This creates fairer competition and prevents companies from undercutting wages to gain advantage.
Example: The Hotel Industry Collective Agreement sets shared rules for the entire sector, ensuring that all employees — from luxury hotels to small restaurants — benefit from minimum rights and standards.
This mechanism ensures more fairness, transparency, and stability in the labour market.
3. National Minimum Wage
The introduction of the national minimum wage was a turning point for labour rights in Portugal. It ensures no worker receives less than a legally established base salary, supporting social justice and preventing exploitation.
The Government reviews this wage annually in partnership with unions and employer associations, considering factors like inflation, cost of living and national economic indicators.
In 2025, the minimum wage in Portugal is set at €870 gross per month. This amount applies to all dependent workers, except in special training contracts which follow different rules.
More than just a number, the minimum wage reflects a national commitment to dignity at work and fair remuneration.
4. Health, Hygiene, and Workplace Safety
Mandatory safe working conditions are one of the biggest achievements of the post-April 25 era. The law requires all workers to receive proper training and protective equipment for their role.
Before the revolution, workers’ safety was either overlooked or ignored. With constitutional reform and updated labour laws, it became mandatory for employers to ensure hygienic, safe, and healthy working environments.
Companies must provide job-specific protective gear and training to all employees.
Example: In the construction sector, employers must comply with rules from ACT (Portuguese Labour Authority) by providing helmets, safety boots, reflective vests and continuous training on occupational risks.
These rules are not only legal obligations — they’re investments in human capital and workforce productivity.
5. Gender Equality and Anti-Discrimination
One of the most significant changes post-April 25 was the legal establishment of gender equality at work. Portuguese law now prohibits all forms of discrimination based on gender — including pay gaps, promotion opportunities and job access.
In practice, men and women must be paid equally for equal work and have the same career progression opportunities.
Institutions like CITE (Commission for Equality in Labour and Employment) promote gender equality through:
- Awareness campaigns for companies and institutions
- Support for victims of harassment or discrimination at work
- Legal advice and training initiatives
While gender equality is still a work in progress, the achievements since 1974 show a strong commitment to building a more inclusive and fair workplace culture.
6. Social Security System
Portugal’s modern Social Security system is one of the most valuable victories of the post-25 April period. It offers protection to workers throughout their professional and personal lives.
The system covers employees, freelancers and legally resident immigrants in Portugal, and includes support such as:
- Unemployment benefit – for those who lose their job involuntarily
- Sick leave – financial support during temporary illness
- Parental leave – protecting the employment link during childbirth or adoption
- Retirement pension – financial security after the end of working life
Additionally, there are support measures for disability, family assistance, and vulnerable social groups.
Today, Social Security remains a central pillar of the Portuguese welfare state, promoting equality, dignity and stability for millions.
What About Portugal in 2025?
The job market has evolved considerably since 1974. Modern work environments are shaped by rapid changes, digitalisation, and new expectations from both employers and employees.
Companies seek agility and flexibility. Workers want better work-life balance, mobility, and career fulfilment.
In this new reality, temporary work has become a key solution. When regulated responsibly, it supports businesses without compromising workers’ rights.
Temporary work opens doors for new jobseekers, career changers and young professionals. It also offers flexible schedules and potential paths to permanent contracts.
➡️ Learn more: What Are the Rights of Temporary Workers in Portugal?
Temporary Work in Portugal as Part of the Solution
Temporary work offers strategic value for companies and candidates alike:
- Facilitates job market access for young people or those changing careers
- Offers schedule flexibility to suit different life stages
- Creates opportunities for future employment and permanent integration
- Allows companies to meet demand quickly without cutting workers’ rights
➡️ Discover Timing’s services for both candidates and employers.
– Did This Topic Help?
At Timing, we believe that information is a tool for freedom. That’s why we honour the spirit of April 25 — giving voice to workers and supporting businesses with transparent and fair solutions.
If you’re looking for a job opportunity or if your company needs HR support, visit our official website or follow us on social media for more insights on labour rights in Portugal and beyond.
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