A recent study conducted by sociologist Catarina Reis Oliveira, a specialist at ISCSP-University of Lisbon, revealed the inaccuracy of certain narratives about immigration and crime in the country and shared more precise statistics. Oliveira analyzed a database of crimes recorded by Portuguese authorities, published by the Directorate-General for Justice Policy of the country, and concluded that “the idea that the increase in immigration brings more crime is a myth.”
The analysis was based on the cross-comparison of criminal data with the number of immigrants. The results showed that in municipalities with the highest absolute number of foreign citizens, the number of crimes decreased between 2011 and 2023. Furthermore, the crime rate in relation to the total number of residents is lower in municipalities where the foreign population is more significant. These facts contradict recent claims made by a far-right party in Portugal about the relationship between crime and immigration.
According to Oliveira, the growing polarization of opinions on migration in Portuguese society results from a poor reading of the data. She emphasizes that many variables demonstrate the importance of foreign workers for the sustainability of the country’s social security system and for mitigating population decline and aging. She also highlights the importance of ensuring that policymakers are aware of these facts and statistics – rather than being guided by popular narratives that are not anchored in reality – when formulating public policies.
The foreign population in Portugal has seen a remarkable increase over the last 3 years, reaching more than 1 million immigrants in 2023. Foreign residents now represent 9.8% of the national population. The diversity brought by immigration has contributed to the cultural richness of the country and its economic development. It is essential to demystify misconceptions about the relationship between immigration and crime, promoting an inclusive and informed society.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) based on the main topics and information presented in the article:
1. What was the purpose of the study conducted by sociologist Catarina Reis Oliveira?
The purpose of the study was to debunk certain narratives about immigration and crime in Portugal, providing more accurate statistics and demystifying the myth that an increase in immigration is related to an increase in crime.
2. How was the data analysis conducted?
The analysis was based on the cross-comparison of criminal data with the number of immigrants. The sociologist analyzed a database of crimes recorded by Portuguese authorities, published by the Directorate-General for Justice Policy of the country.
3. What were the results of the analysis?
The results showed that in municipalities with the highest absolute number of foreign citizens, the number of crimes decreased between 2011 and 2023. Additionally, the crime rate in relation to the total number of residents is lower in municipalities where the foreign population is more significant.
4. What contradicts the recent claims made by a far-right party in Portugal?
The claims of the far-right party about the relationship between crime and immigration were contradicted by the results of the analysis conducted by the sociologist. The data show that the increase in immigration is not related to an increase in crime.
5. According to Catarina Reis Oliveira, why is Portuguese society increasingly polarized regarding immigration?
According to the sociologist, the polarization of opinions on immigration in Portuguese society results from a poor reading of the data. She emphasizes the importance of policymakers basing their public policies on real facts and statistics, rather than being guided by unsubstantiated popular narratives.
6. What is the importance of foreign workers for Portugal?
According to Oliveira, foreign workers are important for the sustainability of the country’s social security system and for mitigating population decline and aging.
7. What is the current number of immigrants in Portugal?
In 2023, the number of immigrants in Portugal surpassed 1 million, representing 9.8% of the national population.
8. How has immigration contributed to Portugal?
Immigration has contributed to the cultural diversity and economic development of the country.
9. What is the ultimate goal mentioned in the article?
The ultimate goal is to demystify misconceptions about the relationship between immigration and crime, promoting an inclusive and informed society.
Definitions of key terms:
– Immigration: the act of entering or residing in a country different from one’s country of origin, with the aim of establishing oneself permanently or temporarily.
– Crime: an illegal action that can be punished by law.
– Polarization: the phenomenon in which the opinions and beliefs of the population are divided into opposing extremes, generating hostility and conflict.
– Sustainability: the ability to meet current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.
– Social Security System: a set of policies and programs implemented by the government to ensure the social protection of citizens, including benefits such as health, retirement, and sick leave.
Useful links related to the main topic (main domains only):
– inmigration.gov.pt (official government website on immigration)
– eurostat.eu (European statistics on immigration and demographics in Portugal)