The recent publication titled 'Portugal in the 21st Century,' edited by Nuno Monteiro, offers a comprehensive overview of contemporary Portugal, delving into its cultural, economic, political, and social developments over the first two decades of the 21st century. The book is organized into nine chapters that cover various aspects of national identity, political systems, economy, and cultural production, featuring insights from notable figures such as António Guterres, Charles A. Kupchan, Kenneth Maxwell, and Constanze Stelzenmüller. Published by Routledge on August 5, 2024, the paperback edition consists of 176 pages and aims to provide readers with a nuanced understanding of Portugal's evolving landscape in the modern era [bc4b8400].
In light of recent political changes, including the resignation of Prime Minister António Costa amid a corruption probe, the book's insights into Portugal's political systems may offer context to the current climate. Costa's departure has left the country with a caretaker government, which will manage day-to-day affairs while preparing for elections set for March 10, 2024. This political instability has raised concerns about the future direction of Portugal, particularly as the country seeks to access remaining EU recovery funds and navigate ongoing economic challenges [e69f380e].
The book also touches on Portugal's potential to lead in the energy transition, a topic that has gained prominence amid discussions of economic recovery and sustainability. A study by consulting firm McKinsey highlighted that Portugal could see an impact of 10-20% of GDP by 2030 from its efforts in renewable energy, which aligns with the themes explored in Monteiro's work. This potential could create approximately 500,000 jobs, emphasizing the importance of strategic investments in renewable resources [c20d08f4].
Additionally, the recent changes to tax breaks for expats have sparked a surge of digital nomads moving to Portugal, complicating the economic landscape. The government's attempts to limit foreign residency have inadvertently attracted high-net-worth individuals seeking to benefit from expiring tax incentives. This influx has raised concerns about rising living costs and inflation, which are critical issues addressed in the book's analysis of social development [af357500].
As Portugal grapples with these multifaceted challenges, 'Portugal in the 21st Century' serves as a timely resource for understanding the interplay between its rich cultural heritage and the pressing issues it faces today. The book not only chronicles the past but also provides insights into the future trajectory of this vibrant nation [bc4b8400].