The Exceptional Case of Post-Bailout Portugal

This book explores the argument that Portugal has been an exception to the trend of political upheaval and electoral instability across Southern Europe following the financial crisis and the bailout period. It does so by mapping and exploring in-depth three key dimensions: the governmental arena, the party system, and citizens' political attitudes. The stability of its party system, the quick recovery of political attitudes after the end of the bailout period, the absence of competitive populist challengers until 2019, and the successful and stable union between anti-austerity parties supporting the socialist government are all factors that contribute to Portugal's exceptionality.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 132 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The book delves into the argument that Portugal stands as an exception to the trend of political upheaval and electoral instability observed across Southern Europe following the financial crisis and the bailout period. It achieves this by meticulously mapping and exploring three key dimensions: the governmental arena, the party system, and citizens' political attitudes.

The five chapters within this edited volume present compelling evidence that a convergence of several factors has positioned Portugal as a highly stimulating case study and an anomaly within the Southern European landscape. Firstly, the stability of Portugal's party system, particularly the electoral support of mainstream parties, is noteworthy. This stability has contributed to a sense of political continuity and predictability, which has been crucial in navigating the challenges posed by the financial crisis.

Secondly, the swift recovery of political attitudes after the end of the bailout period (2011-2014) is a testament to the resilience of the Portuguese people and their government. Despite the lingering effects of the crisis, the nation was able to move forward quickly, fostering a renewed sense of political engagement and participation. This positive trajectory is particularly impressive considering the high levels of populist attitudes prevalent in Southern Europe at the time.

Thirdly, the absence of competitive populist challengers until 2019, despite the prevalence of populist attitudes amongst the citizenry, is a significant achievement. This stability has allowed the government to implement its economic policies with a degree of continuity and predictability, which has contributed to the country's economic recovery and growth.

Lastly, the successful and stable union between anti-austerity parties supporting the socialist government (dubbed the "Contraption") and its adoption of an "austerity by stealth model" is a remarkable achievement. This collaboration has allowed the government to balance fiscal responsibility with social welfare measures, ensuring that the benefits of economic growth are shared by all segments of society.

In conclusion, The Exceptional Case of Post-Bailout Portugal offers valuable insights into the dynamics of political stability, responsiveness, and responsibility in a region characterized by economic and social challenges. By examining Portugal's unique trajectory, the book demonstrates that it is possible to combine critical junctures and political stability, responsiveness, and responsibility through the study of one of the most intriguing cases in Southern Europe in the last decades. This book will appeal to students, researchers, and scholars of Political Science and European Studies, providing a comprehensive and insightful examination of a country that has defied expectations and emerged as a model of resilience and progress.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032106212