Portugal's women still face higher unemployment and poverty despite slight gains
Portugal's latest unemployment figures reveal persistent challenges for women in the job market. While the female unemployment rate slightly decreased in 2025, it remains above that of men. The data also highlights financial hardship, with many unemployed women living below the poverty line despite social security.
In 2025, the number of unemployed women in Portugal fell by 2.4% to 180,200. Their unemployment rate dropped from 6.8% to 6.5%, yet still exceeded the male rate of 5.5%. The sharper decline in male unemployment meant women now account for 53.5% of all jobless individuals.
Long-term unemployment remains a significant issue. Over a third of unemployed women (37%) had been without work for more than a year, making up 53% of the country's long-term unemployed. Financial struggles also persist, with 42% of unemployed women living in poverty even after receiving social transfers. Without such support, the poverty rate could climb to 64%.
The average monthly unemployment benefit for both genders stood at €664, below the poverty threshold of €723. Additionally, only 44% of women qualified for unemployment-related social protection under a broader definition of joblessness. The labour underutilisation rate for women reached 11.6%, compared to 8.9% for men.
Against this backdrop, the CGTP's Equality Week, running from March 2 to 8, aims to reinforce women's rights and uphold constitutional protections.
The figures underscore ongoing disparities in Portugal's labour market. Women face higher unemployment rates, longer periods without work, and greater financial vulnerability. The CGTP's campaign seeks to address these inequalities through policy and advocacy efforts.
