This snapshot presents strengths and weaknesses of national physical activity policy actions in Portugal. Compare Portugal with other European countries in our MOVING policy index.
> Read the MOVING snapshot for Portugal in English or Portuguese
Portugal implements policy actions in all 6 policy areas of the MOVING framework. One policy area, physical activity counselling, assessment and prescription in healthcare (G), received a good assessment. Three other policy areas achieved a moderate assessment: initiatives that promote physical activity in schools, community and recreation (M), increasing physical activity through public communication which builds behaviour change skills (N), and physical activity opportunities in the workplace and promotion across multiple professions (O).
Within policy areas, weaknesses were identified on road safety actions including safety of pedestrians and cyclists (I), in addition to developing and communicating physical activity guidelines and public awareness campaigns. Gaps were seen in financial incentives to promote physical activity (M), physical activity in the workplace (O) and campaigns to promote active transport (I).
A poor assessment was achieved on structures and surroundings which promote physical activity (V). Therefore, this policy area should be prioritised. Much more needs to be done to improve policies that promote public and active transport (I), where a fair assessment was achieved. Action and good policy design in both of these areas is key to improving overall environments that enable physical activity.
Download a full analysis and breakdown of Portugal’s results
This country snapshot presents detailed results of the MOVING policy index for Portugal. Full index results are outlined in the MOVING policy brief, which compares Portugal with other European countries and explains the methods for producing this snapshot and the index.
The index assesses if national government policy actions exist across all areas of the MOVING framework and, if so, how well designed they are. We produced this assessment by benchmarking policies from Portugal, collected through a comprehensive scan. You can view all benchmarked policies in our MOVING database.
We also have snapshots of nutrition policies in 30 European countries. Visit the Portugal page or see all the country snapshots.
The policy landscape in any country evolves over time. These findings reflect our knowledge as of May 2023. To provide feedback or suggest updates, please get in touch.
Fill in our feedback form or email the team policy@wcrf.org
