Europe Portugal Population: A Look at the Country's Growth and Decline
Portugal is a small country located on the Iberian Peninsula in southwestern Europe. It is bordered by Spain to the north and east, and the Atlantic Ocean to the south and west. Portugal has a population of approximately 10.3 million people, making it the second-most populous country in the European Union after Germany.
The population of Portugal has grown steadily since the 19th century, when it was around 4 million. The population peaked in the early 20th century, reaching 10.7 million in 1930. Since then, the population has steadily declined due to emigration, low fertility rates, and a declining birth rate.
Despite the decline in population, Portugal is still one of the most densely populated countries in Europe. It has a population density of around 118 people per square kilometer, which is higher than the average for the European Union.
The majority of the population is concentrated in the coastal regions, where the climate is milder and the economy is more developed. The northern and interior regions of Portugal are less populated and are characterized by higher poverty levels and lower economic development.
Portugal has a relatively young population, with a median age of 40.3 years. The population is also aging, with the proportion of people aged 65 and over increasing from 11.5% in 2000 to 16.4% in 2020. This is due to a combination of low fertility rates and increased life expectancy.
The Portuguese population is ethnically diverse, with a mix of ethnicities including Portuguese, Spanish, African, and Asian. The majority of the population is Roman Catholic, although there are also small numbers of other religious groups.
Portugal has a high rate of emigration, with an estimated 3 million Portuguese citizens living abroad. The majority of these emigrants are young people, who have left the country in search of better economic opportunities. The most popular destinations for Portuguese emigrants are the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and the United States.
Despite the decline in population, Portugal has seen an increase in its economy over the last few decades. The country has become an important destination for foreign investment, and its economy is largely based on tourism, agriculture, and industry. The country is also a major producer of wine, and its products are exported around the world.
As the population of Portugal continues to decline, the government is taking steps to address the issue. These include providing incentives for young people to stay in the country and encouraging immigration from other countries. The government is also investing in infrastructure and public services to make the country more attractive to potential immigrants.
Overall, Portugal has a population that is declining, but it is still a relatively young and ethnically diverse country. It is an important destination for foreign investment and has a strong economy based on tourism, agriculture, and industry. Despite its population decline, Portugal is still an important part of the European Union and a major producer of wine.