OECD Policy Coherence Scan of Portugal

2. Introducing Portugal’s institutional mechanisms for policy coherence sustainable development

Abstract

This chapter provides an overview of the institutional, legal and policy landscape for sustainable development in Portugal. It presents the mechanisms in place to integrate the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as part of the national agenda in a coherent way. It also explores the links between Portugal’s national sustainable development initiatives and the broader framework defined by the European Union, highlighting collaborative efforts towards common goals. Finally, the chapter outlines the roles and responsibilities of the relevant stakeholders and identifies their mandates, tasks and contributions towards enhanced PCSD.

The legal and strategic framework for sustainable development in Portugal

The pathway to sustainable development in Portugal can be traced back to early initiatives aimed at environmental protection and economic sustainability, laying the groundwork for integrating the SDGs into its national agenda.

2002: Ratification of the Kyoto Protocol

In 2002, Portugal ratified the Kyoto Protocol, affirming its commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and addressing climate change. This international agreement marked a significant step in Portugal’s environmental policy, setting the stage for further integration of sustainable development principles into national legislation.

2006: National Strategy for Sustainable Development 2005-2015

Portugal’s Estratégia Nacional de Desenvolvimento Sustentável (ENDS) (National Strategy for Sustainable Development) 2005-2015 (ENDS, 2006[1]) emphasised the need for a sustainable development model to balance economic growth, social equity and environmental protection, ensuring quality of life for future generations. It integrated global visions and long-term objectives into national policies, highlighting the necessity of coherence and integration across various public policies and sectors. The Strategy’s Implementation Plan (PIENDS) embodied this approach, promoting modernisation and adaptation to global contexts. These efforts were aligned with the EU Lisbon Strategy, focusing on competitiveness, social cohesion and environmental sustainability. Sectoral programmes addressing key sustainable development dimensions supported this comprehensive strategy.

2010: National Reform Programme

The National Reform Programme (PNR) (Government of Portugal, 2010[2]), launched in 2010, aligned Portugal’s economic, social and environmental policies with the Europe 2020 strategy, focusing on smart, sustainable and inclusive growth. The PNR established clear targets for employment, innovation, energy, education and social inclusion, creating a roadmap for sustainable development in the coming decade. Subsequently, in 2024, the National Medium-Term Budgetary-Structural Plan (POENMP) replaced the PNR and the Stability Programme (PE) under the new framework of the European Semester.

2015: Paris Agreement

The Paris Agreement, an international treaty adopted under the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC, 2015[3]), aims to limit global temperature rise to below 2°C above pre-industrial levels while pursuing efforts to cap it at 1.5°C. Portugal, as the first nation globally to commit to carbon neutrality by 2050, has accelerated this goal to 2045 under the European Climate Law. In alignment with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the SDGs, Portugal integrates low-carbon and sustainable development principles into its policies.

2015: Integration of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development

Following the adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by all members of the United Nations in September 2015, Portugal promptly began the process of integrating the 17 SDGs into national policy. This included establishing an inter-ministerial working group tasked with developing a coherent national strategy for SDG implementation, ensuring that all government sectors were aligned with the goals.

2015: Green Growth Commitment

Building on its dedication to sustainable development, Portugal launched the Green Growth Commitment (Government of Portugal, 2015[4]), a national strategy designed to accelerate the transition to a greener and more inclusive economy. Officially approved through Council of Ministers Resolution No. 28/2015, the initiative sets out ambitious targets for 2020 and 2030, aiming to align economic growth with environmental sustainability, promote renewable energy, foster circular economy practices, and enhance social and territorial inclusion. To support its implementation, the strategy also established the Green Growth Coalition, an advisory body composed of public and private stakeholders.

2017: First Voluntary National Review

Portugal presented its first Voluntary National Review (VNR) (Government of Portugal, 2017[5]) at the United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development in 2017. The VNR provided a comprehensive assessment of Portugal’s progress toward the SDGs, highlighting achievements, challenges and lessons learned. It also emphasised the role of stakeholder engagement, including civil society, the private sector and academia, in advancing the SDG agenda.

2020: Portugal 2030 Strategy

Portugal 2030's strategic framework is the Portugal 2030 Strategy, approved by Council of Ministers Resolution 98/2020 of 13 November. It is structured around four central thematic agendas for the development of Portugal's economy, society and territory in 2030:

• Thematic agenda 1: People first: A better demographic balance, greater inclusion, less inequality

• Thematic agenda 2: Digitalisation, innovation and skills as drivers of development

• Thematic agenda 3: Climate transition and resource sustainability

• Thematic agenda 4: A country that is competitive externally and cohesive internally.

2023: Council of Ministers Resolution No. 5/2023

Published on 23 January 2023, the Council of Ministers Resolution No. 5/2023 (Government of Portugal, 2023[6]) defines the national co-ordination and implementation of the 2030 Agenda in Portugal. It delegates responsibility to the members of the government and calls for the drafting of the National Roadmap for Sustainable Development 2030. It also creates the High-Level Monitoring Commission to monitor and evaluate the implementation of the SDGs.

2023: Second Voluntary National Review

In 2023, Portugal submitted its second VNR to the United Nations, demonstrating significant progress in several SDGs and acknowledging areas where further efforts were needed. The VNR highlighted innovative practices, policy initiatives and partnerships that had contributed to SDG achievement, offering a transparent and critical reflection on the path ahead (Government of Portugal, 2023[7]).

2024-Ongoing: National Roadmap for Sustainable Development 2030

Currently under government review, Portugal’s Roteiro Nacional para o Desenvolvimento Sustentável 2030 (RNDS 2030) aims to operationalise a set of changes to accelerate the implementation of the SDGs. A working version is available at PTSustenavel.gov.pt. (PTSUSTENTÁVEL, 2025[8])

Linkages with the EU Framework

Portugal has actively engaged with the European Union's sustainability agenda, ensuring that its national policies align with the SDGs and contribute to the broader EU objectives for sustainable development. The European Union has set ambitious agendas for sustainability, such as the Portugal 2030 strategic framework, the European Green Deal, the Digital Single Market, and the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, all of which guide Portugal's national policies.

Portugal 2030

Portugal 2030 materialises the Partnership Agreement established between Portugal and the European Commission, which sets out the main strategic objectives for the implementation, between 2021 and 2027, of the global amount of €23 billion. The initiative is guided by five EU strategic objectives: fostering innovation and competitiveness for a smarter Portugal; enhancing transportation networks for a more connected country; promoting local development for closer engagement with citizens; advancing green transition goals for a more sustainable Portugal; and improving social inclusion, education and healthcare for a more equitable society. Additionally, the initiative includes a focus on ensuring a just transition to a carbon-neutral economy. Implemented through 12 programmes, it aims to co-ordinate resources efficiently, emphasising transparency, effectiveness and partnership.

Digital Single Market strategy (launched in May 2015)

Aligning with the European Union’s Digital Single Market strategy launched in May 2015, Portugal has initiated policies to promote the digitalisation of its economy and society. By integrating digital advancements with sustainability objectives, Portugal aims to create a more efficient, equitable and environmentally responsible digital economy. These policies aim to harness digital technologies for sustainable economic growth, improved public services and environmental sustainability. Portugal's efforts in this domain include significant investments in digital infrastructure, the expansion of e-government services, and initiatives to enhance digital literacy and skills among its population, mirroring the European Union’s goal of a seamless digital market.

Circular Economy Action Plan (first package adopted in December 2015)

The European Union's Circular Economy Action Plan, first adopted in December 2015 and updated in March 2020, has been a key influencer of Portugal’s policies on waste management, recycling, and sustainable production and consumption. Portugal's national strategy for embracing a circular economy is evident in its waste management reforms initiated in 2016 and ongoing incentives for businesses to adopt sustainable practices. These measures are directly aimed at achieving SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and are in line with the European Union's plan to minimise waste and make efficient use of resources.

European Green Deal (announced in December 2019)

Portugal has tailored its national sustainability strategies to support the European Green Deal, which aims to make the European Union climate neutral by 2050. Following the European Green Deal announcement in December 2019, Portugal unveiled its Green Growth Commitment in 2015, aligning with the European Union’s ambitious climate targets. This commitment underscores Portugal's focus on decarbonisation, the energy transition to renewable sources and the promotion of a green economy, reflecting the European Green Deal's objectives.

EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 (adopted in May 2020)

In response to the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, adopted in May 2020, Portugal has taken significant steps to protect and restore biodiversity. The National Strategy for Nature Conservation and Biodiversity 2030 (Government of Portugal, 2018[9]), published in 2018, outlines Portugal's commitments to expanding protected areas, restoring ecosystems, and integrating biodiversity considerations into agricultural, forestry and fisheries practices. This strategy aligns with the European Union’s overarching goal of reversing biodiversity loss and ensuring the sustainable use of natural resources.

The Social Summit in Porto (7 May 2021)

The Social Summit, held in Porto in May 2021, marked another key moment for Portugal's active engagement with the European Union's sustainability agenda. The summit focused on aligning national and EU strategies to address climate change, digital transformation and social inclusion. Under its Presidency of the EU Council, Portugal emphasised the importance of implementing the European Pillar of Social Rights, ensuring that policies contribute to the European Union’s broader goals for sustainable development. By prioritising an inclusive recovery from the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and advancing the green and digital transitions, Portugal demonstrated its commitment to the SDGs and the European Union’s vision for 2030. Through this event, Portugal reaffirmed its role in ensuring that its policies align with the SDGs and support the European Union’s objectives for social and environmental sustainability (European Commission, 2021[10]).

The European Climate Law (30 June 2021)

The European Climate Law is a legislative framework that establishes the European Union's 2050 objective of being climate neutral and an intermediate aim of lowering greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030 (European Parliament and Council, 2021[11]). Portugal has the ambitious goal of advancing the target for climate neutrality to 2025, aiming to achieve climate neutrality no later than 2045, as stated in Article 18.2 of Law No. 98/2021 (Government of Portugal, 2021[12]).

Fit for 55 Package (proposed in July 2021)

Portugal is aligning its national climate and energy policies with the European Union’s Fit for 55 Package, proposed in July 2021, which aims to reduce net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030, compared to 1990 levels. Portugal's National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP) 2021-2030, updated considering the Fit for 55 objectives, focuses on increasing the share of renewable energy, improving energy efficiency and accelerating the decarbonisation of its economy.

The national alignment with these initiatives illustrates Portugal's proactive approach to integrating EU sustainability goals and directives into its national framework, ensuring a cohesive and comprehensive strategy towards achieving the SDGs and contributing to the European Union's collective targets for sustainable development.

Key actors, mandates and responsibilities

A number of entities make up Portugal’s institutional framework, which is designed to ensure the effective co‑ordination, implementation and monitoring of sustainability initiatives (Table 2.1 and Figure 2.1). This section provides an overview of the roles and responsibilities of the key institutions, reflecting their distinct contributions and mandates towards enhancing PCSD and achieving the SDGs.

It should be noted that, in line with Decree-Law No. 43-B/2024 and the recently enacted Decree-Law No. 96/2024 (November 28, 2024), the responsibilities and personnel of the institution that initiated this project and scan, the Secretariat-General of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers (SGPCM), have been integrated into various other entities.

Table 2.1. Key actors supporting the implementation of sustainable development policies in Portugal

Name	Mandate/function relating to PCSD	Composition	Status
Centre for Planning and Evaluation of Public Policies (PLANAPP)	PLANAPP is responsible for global coherence [CMR 5/2023 (2.c)]. As such, it plays a significant role in strategic planning and PCSD The centre aims to support the definition and implementation of public policies and prospective analysis. Its main objective is to accompany and strengthen each of the intervention phases in the public policy cycle - anticipation and planning, design and implementation, monitoring and evaluation - promoting the creation and consolidation of methodologies and competences, both internally and within the public structure, necessary for quality public action in these areas. . PLANAPP also seeks to ensure long-term strategic goals are embedded in public administration and align with the SDGs.	PLANAPP comprises a central unit responsible for strategic planning, policy development and foresight activities. The centre includes various experts and technical staff who specialise in different aspects of planning and policy analysis. PLANAPP works collaboratively with other government departments and coordinates REPLAN (Network of Planning and Foresight Services of Public Administration) to foster an integrated approach to policymaking. PLANAPP also functions as a network hub, connecting with other public administration entities to enhance the coherence and effectiveness of governmental actions.	PLANAPP was established as part of Portugal's efforts to improve strategic planning within public administration. The centre participates in regular meetings and co-ordination sessions with various stakeholders to ensure the effective implementation and alignment of policies with strategic objectives.
Instituto da Cooperação e da Língua (Camões I.P.)	The Instituto da Cooperação e da Língua, commonly known as Camões, I.P., operates under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Its primary mandate is to promote the Portuguese language and culture globally and to co-ordinate Portugal's international co-operation activities. Camões, I.P. is integral to Portugal's efforts in PCSD, as it aligns educational, cultural and development co-operation policies with the SDGs. This alignment ensures that Portugal's international engagements support sustainable development initiatives effectively.	Camões, I.P. is organised into specialised departments and support units, including: Bilateral Cooperation and Multilateral and European Cooperation – responsible for development aid, international partnerships, and multilateral coordination. Language and Culture – focused on the global promotion of the Portuguese language and cultural initiatives. Three transversal units – covering planning, monitoring and statistics; evaluation; and communication; and Support services – providing administrative, financial, and logistical support. Camões, I.P. also oversees six Portuguese Cooperation Centres (CPCs) located in the PALOP and Timor-Leste. These CPCs operate in close coordination with the embassies and act as the institute’s operational arms in the field, supporting the implementation, monitoring, and coordination of cooperation programmes and projects in the partner country.	Camões, I.P., operating under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is responsible for proposing and implementing Portugal’s development cooperation policy. It coordinates cooperation activities carried out by other public entities and promotes the international dissemination of the Portuguese language and culture. In the context of PCSD (Policy Coherence for Sustainable Development), Camões, I.P. plays a key role by aligning development cooperation, education, and cultural diplomacy with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This ensures that Portugal’s international engagements contribute effectively to global sustainable development efforts.
National Institute of Administration (INA)	Instituto Nacional de Administrahação, known as INA, has the primary mandate of promoting the development and qualification of public employees. It focuses on competency management and evaluating personnel needs in alignment with the missions and objectives. In relation to PCSD, INA contributes by ensuring that public administration personnel are well-equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to implement sustainable development policies and integrate these principles into their daily operations.	INA is a public institute under the indirect administration of the State, with administrative, financial, and asset autonomy. The organisation includes departments dedicated not only to training, but also to research, innovation and development, which are crucial for the transformation of public administration and its alignment with the SDGs. The training programmes include partnerships with different stakeholders, such as governmental, international organisations and higher education institutions to ensure comprehensive training programmes.	INA I.P. is a public institute within the state's indirect administration, with its own legal personality, endowed with administrative, financial and patrimonial autonomy, under the supervision of the Minister of the Presidency. INA, I.P.'s fundamental mission is to create, transmit and disseminate knowledge in the field of Public Administration, contributing, through training, teaching, scientific research and technical advice, to the innovation and modernisation of the Public Administration and to the qualification, training and enhancement of its human resources.
Statistics Portugal (INE)	Statistics Portugal, known as INE (Instituto Nacional de Estatística), is responsible for producing and disseminating official statistical information to support decision-making in the public and private sectors. Its mandate includes collecting, analysing and publishing data on various aspects of the economy, society and environment, which aligns with PCSD by providing critical data to monitor and implement the SDGs.	INE comprises several departments that handle specific areas, such as demographic statistics, economic indicators, social statistics and environmental data. It works closely with national and international bodies, including the European Statistical System, ensuring harmonisation of methodologies and data quality. The institute also involves various technical working groups to manage specialised data and themes.	INE was established in 1935 and operates as Portugal's central authority for statistical information. It plays a vital role in providing reliable statistical data, which is essential for monitoring and achieving sustainable development objectives in Portugal.
Directorate General of Foreign Policy (DGPE)	The DGPE, under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Portugal, is responsible for formulating and implementing Portugal's foreign policy. This includes maintaining diplomatic relations, managing international treaties and representing Portugal in international organisations. The DGPE's role in PCSD involves ensuring that foreign policy decisions align with the SDGs and promoting global co‑operation on sustainability issues.	The DGPE is headed by a Director-General, supported by Deputy Directors-General. The organisation includes various departments focused on different geographical regions and thematic areas, such as political affairs, economic diplomacy and international organisations. This structure ensures comprehensive coverage of Portugal's foreign policy objectives and active participation in global forums.	The DGPE holds regular meetings with key stakeholders, including other government ministries, international partners and diplomatic missions.
Directorate General of Budget (DGO)	The DGO operates under the Ministry of Finance and is responsible for overseeing the preparation, implementation and monitoring of the national budget. Its primary functions include ensuring fiscal discipline, managing public finances efficiently and promoting transparency in budgetary processes. In the context of PCSD, the DGO supports the alignment of budgetary policies with the SDGs, ensuring that financial resources are allocated in a manner that supports sustainable economic growth and social welfare.	The DGO is structured with various departments dedicated to different aspects of budget management, including budget preparation, fiscal policy analysis and public expenditure management. The Directorate is led by a Director-General, supported by Deputy Directors-General, and a team of specialists in public finance and budget management. This composition allows the DGO to comprehensively address all aspects of the national budget and fiscal policy.	The DGO was established as a central service within the Ministry of Finance to ensure effective budgetary governance. It conducts regular meetings and co‑ordination sessions with other government departments, agencies and international organisations to review budget proposals, fiscal policies and implementation progress.
Office of Planning, Strategy, Evaluation and International Relations (GPEARI)	The GPEARI operates under the Ministry of Finance. Its mandate includes reinforcing governance support functions, such as strategic planning, policy evaluation and international relations. It plays a critical role in PCSD by ensuring that the policies formulated and implemented by the Ministry of Finance are aligned with the SDGs. This involves providing strategic and operational planning support and co-ordinating Portugal’s engagement with European and multilateral institutions.	The GPEARI comprises various departments that focus on strategic planning, policy evaluation and international co-operation. It includes experts and analysts who work on developing strategic studies, evaluating policy impacts, and managing Portugal's international financial relations. The office is led by a director-general, who is supported by a team of specialised staff responsible for different areas of planning, strategy, and evaluation.	The GPEARI is an essential part of the Ministry of Finance, and it was established to enhance the ministry's strategic and evaluative capacities. The office conducts regular meetings and workshops with various stakeholders, including other government departments, international organisations and policy experts.
REPLAN	REPLAN (Rede de Planeamento e Avaliação) is part of the strategic planning network established by the Portuguese government to enhance policy development and strategic planning across public administration. It aims to address current and future challenges by supporting effective policymaking and reinforcing public trust. REPLAN's role in PCSD involves fostering a collaborative environment for sustainable governance and supporting PLANAPP in fostering the integration of the SDGs into national policies.	REPLAN comprises various public administration entities working collaboratively to improve foresight, strategic planning and evaluation. The network includes departments and experts from different sectors, all co‑ordinated to ensure comprehensive and cohesive policy development. This collaborative structure is designed to enhance the capabilities of public institutions in foresight, strategic planning and policy evaluation.	REPLAN was established in 2022 as part of the modernisation efforts of the Portuguese public administration (PlanAPP, n.d.[13]). REPLAN operates as an integral part of the modernisation strategy of the Portuguese public administration. It holds regular meetings and workshops to discuss and develop strategic initiatives. These meetings typically occur quarterly, with additional sessions as necessary to address specific projects or urgent policy issues. The network is important for ensuring that strategic planning is continuously updated and aligned with national and international development goals.
High-Level Steering Committee (Monitoring Committee) (HLMC)	The HLMC, known as Comissão de Acompanhamento, plays a critical role in overseeing the implementation and progress of national and international commitments, including those related to the SDGs. The committee's primary function is to monitor, evaluate, and provide strategic guidance on policies and actions to ensure they align with the country's sustainable development objectives. This includes fostering co‑ordination among various stakeholders, reviewing progress and making recommendations to address challenges and optimise outcomes.	The diverse composition of the committee ensures comprehensive oversight and the integration of multiple perspectives in the assessment and strategic direction of policies. According to Article 6 of the Council of Ministers Resolution No. 5/2023, the Monitoring Committee includes: a representative from the government member responsible for the presidency area, who presides; a representative from the government member responsible for the foreign affairs area; a representative from each of the regional governments; a representative from the Economic and Social Council; a representative from the National Association of Portuguese Municipalities; a representative from the National Association of Parishes; and three distinguished individuals co-opted by the other members. Representatives from civil society participate only when invited, as outlined in Article 8 of Resolution 5/2023, by order of the government members responsible for the presidency and foreign affairs areas, as well as the government member responsible for the sectoral area related to the basis of the invitation.	The HLMC was established in 2023 by the Council of Ministers Resolution No. 5/2023. This institutional framework plays a pivotal role in addressing concerns related to the potential impacts of political changes. The inclusive composition of the Steering Committee, showcasing bipartisan commitment and consensus-building across different political spectrums, demonstrates resilience against potential disruptions following electoral outcomes.
Agency for Development and Cohesion (AD&C)	AD&C is tasked with co-ordinating regional development policies and ensuring the effective implementation of European Structural and Investment Funds. Its mandate includes programming, implementing and evaluating regional development initiatives, aligning them with national strategies such as Portugal 2020 and Portugal 2030. AD&C plays a crucial role in PCSD by integrating the SDGs into regional policies and ensuring that EU funds are utilised to promote balanced and sustainable territorial development.	AD&C is structured as a public institute endowed with administrative and financial autonomy. It operates under the Ministry for Territorial Cohesion and co‑ordinates closely with other national managing authorities responsible for different operational programmes within the scope of EU Cohesion Policy. The agency includes various departments focused on different aspects of regional development, such as policy planning, fund management and project evaluation.	AD&C was established in 2013 to provide a more integrated and effective approach to regional development and cohesion policy in Portugal. The agency holds regular meetings to discuss and evaluate the progress of regional development projects and the utilisation of EU funds. These meetings typically occur quarterly, with additional sessions scheduled as needed to address specific issues or projects.
National Association of Portuguese Municipalities (ANMP)	The primary mandate of the ANMP is to promote, defend and represent local governments at national and international levels. It advocates for policies that enhance sustainable urban development, improve local governance and foster community well-being. The ANMP works to ensure that municipal policies align with national and international sustainability goals, particularly in areas such as smart cities, climate action, and local economic development. As such, it contributes to vertical policy coherence in Portugal. ANMP has a "Municipal Section for the Sustainable Development Goals" ( (ANMP, n.d.[14])).	The ANMP's structure includes several statutory bodies: National Congress: The highest decision-making body, consisting of representatives from all member municipalities. General Council: Provides strategic direction and oversight. Governing Council: Manages day-to-day operations and implements decisions made by the National Congress. Fiscal Council: Oversees financial management and auditing. Advisory Council: Offers expert advice on various issues.	The ANMP was established in 1985 to represent all 308 municipalities in Portugal, including those in the Azores and Madeira. The ANMP regularly engages in meetings and workshops to discuss and address various issues affecting municipalities. The association also collaborates with national and international bodies to promote best practices and support the implementation of sustainable development policies at the local level.
Platform of NGDOs (non-governmental development organisations)	The Portuguese Platform of NGDOs (Plataforma Portuguesa das ONGD) is a private, non-profit organisation that represents approximately 60 NGDOs in Portugal. The platform's mandate includes promoting human dignity, equity and social justice through development co‑operation, development education and humanitarian aid. In terms of PCSD, the platform aims to influence policymaking at national and international levels to align with the SDGs, fostering a more just, equitable and sustainable world.	The platform is structured with several governing bodies: General Assembly: The highest decision-making body consisting of representatives from member NGDOs. Board of Directors: Manages the day-to-day operations and strategic direction. Advisory Board: Provides expert advice on various issues. Working Groups: Focus on specific thematic areas such as aid watch, development education and ethics. The staff includes an Executive Director, co‑ordinators for capacity building, membership, financial and administrative tasks, and communications and advocacy.	Established in March 1985, the platform was created in response to the need for a unified representation of Portuguese NGDOs. It engages in regular meetings and workshops with its members, government officials, and international organisations to discuss and develop strategies for effective development co‑operation. These meetings typically occur quarterly, with additional sessions as necessary to address specific issues or initiatives. The platform also organises seminars, training sessions and public consultations to gather input and disseminate best practices in sustainable development.

Source: Authors’ elaboration.

Figure 2.1. SDGs governance model in Portugal

Source: Authors’ elaboration, in consultation with Portugal.

This chapter has provided an overview of Portugal's institutional, legal and policy framework for integrating the SDGs into its national agenda. Significant milestones include the ratification of the Kyoto Protocol in 2002, which underscored Portugal’s commitment to addressing climate change. The National Strategy for Sustainable Development, launched in 2005, further laid the foundation for balancing economic, social and environmental priorities. This was followed by the launch of the National Reform Programme in 2010, all of which set the stage for Portugal's alignment with international sustainability commitments.1

Since 2015, with the adoption of the 2030 Agenda, concrete steps have been taken to incorporate the SDGs into national policymaking and structures, including establishing an inter-ministerial working group to guide the process, as outlined in Portugal’s first VNR in 2017. Portugal’s Green Growth Commitment in 2015 further reinforced Portugal’s dedication to a green economy and sustainability. More recently, ongoing efforts to elaborate the National Roadmap for Sustainable Development seek to operationalise a set of changes that provide for an accelerated implementation of the SDGs.

Portugal’s sustainable development policies also resonate with EU goals. National policies are aligned with broader EU sustainability frameworks through EU directives such as the European Green Deal, Digital Single Market, and the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030, as well as key EU frameworks, such as Portugal 2030, which co-ordinates significant EU funds for sustainable growth, and the European Climate Law and Fit for 55 Package, which set ambitious climate targets.

Portugal’s institutional set-up supports co-ordination across sectors and levels of government. According to the Council of Ministers Resolution No. 5/2023, PLANAPP is designated as the lead institution responsible for co-ordinating efforts related to PCSD. Specifically, PLANAPP is tasked with identifying, mapping, and monitoring plans and other national public policy instruments that contribute to implementing the SDGs and their targets and ensuring their overall coherence.

In the domain of foreign policy, Portugal contributes to the EU’s sustainability commitments and the 2030 Agenda through the Portuguese Development Cooperation Strategy 2030 (PDCS2030), a key national public policy instrument that promotes inclusive and equitable global development, supports climate action, and strengthens multilateral cooperation, in line with several EU and international frameworks.

The next chapter assesses Portugal’s performance in all these areas against the eight principles enshrined in the PCSD Recommendation, offering insights into the effectiveness and coherence of Portugal's approach to sustainable development and possible ways ahead.

References

[14] ANMP (n.d.), Municipal Section for the Sustainable Development Goals, https://anmp.pt/anmport/seccoes-de-municipios/seccao-de-municipios-objetivos-de-desenvolvimento-sustentavel/.

[1] ENDS (2006), Why this Strategy?, https://desenvolvimentosustentavel.pt/pt/desenvolvimentosustentavel/porque-esta-estrategia/lista.aspx.

[10] European Commission (2021), Commission and Portuguese Presidency announce Social Summit in Porto, https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/it/ip_21_101.

[11] European Parliament and Council (2021), Regulation (EU) 2021/1119 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 June 2021 establishing the framework for achieving climate neutrality and amending Regulations (EC) No 401/2009 and (EU) 2018/1999 (‘European Climate Law’), https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:32021R1119.

[7] Government of Portugal (2023), 2023 Voluntary National Review Portugal, https://hlpf.un.org/sites/default/files/vnrs/2023/Portugal_VNR_Report.pdf.

[6] Government of Portugal (2023), Council of Ministers Resolution No. 5/2023, https://files.dre.pt/1s/2023/01/01600/0000500007.pdf.

[12] Government of Portugal (2021), Law no. 98/2021, https://diariodarepublica.pt/dr/detalhe/lei/98-2021-176907481.

[9] Government of Portugal (2018), Council of Ministers Resolution No. 55/2018, https://diariodarepublica.pt/dr/detalhe/resolucao-conselho-ministros/55-2018-115226936.

[5] Government of Portugal (2017), National Report on the Implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Portugal, https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/content/documents/15766Portugal2017_EN_REV_FINAL_29_06_2017.pdf.

[4] Government of Portugal (2015), Council of Ministers Resolution No. 28/2015, https://diariodarepublica.pt/dr/detalhe/resolucao-conselho-ministros/28-2015-67120682.

[2] Government of Portugal (2010), National Reform Programme.

[13] PlanAPP (n.d.), The RePLAN, https://www.planapp.gov.pt/apresentacao-replan/ (accessed on 15 April 2025).

[8] PTSUSTENTÁVEL (2025), PROJETO DE ROTEIRO NACIONAL PARA O DESENVOLVIMENTO SUSTENTÁVEL 2030 (RNDS 2030), https://ptsustentavel.gov.pt/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/PTSustentavel-RNDS2030.pdf.

[3] UNFCCC (2015), The Paris Agreement, https://unfccc.int/process-and-meetings/the-paris-agreement.

Note

← 1.  As part of the merger process of the SGPCM, outlined in Decree-Law No. 43-B/2024, the recently enacted Decree-Law No. 96/2024 (28 November) establishes the integration of SGPCM’s responsibilities and personnel into various entities. These include SG-Gov, ESPAP, CEJURE, IGF, GEPAC, PLANAPPPLANAPP, DGLAB, and ESTAMO, S.A., with several of these entities undergoing restructuring to align with the new framework.