Population and mobility in the Portuguese islands: trends from 2001 to 2021

Population and mobility in the Portuguese islands: trends from 2001 to 2021

Blog Article

The aim of this paper is to analyse the demographic and migratory dynamics in the Portuguese island regions of Madeira and the Azores over the last two decades.The article begins with a brief overview of the historical and geographical context, which is essential for understanding the factors that shape population evolution and are reflected in the current situation.Beyond physical constraints such as insularity, it is important to highlight the significant historical influence of here emigration in these regions and its relationship with the development of the islands over time.There have been significant changes in population growth patterns from 2001 to 2021, with a decrease in natural growth and an increased importance of migration for demographic evolution.In particular, emigration emerges as a response to economic vulnerability, playing a crucial role in moments of crisis, such as the recession of 2011-2013.

Traditionally areas of emigration, the islands have experienced an increase in the proportion here of foreign population, a phenomenon that reflects changes in migratory trends, particularly in Madeira, which receives a significant proportion of people from abroad.From a demographic point of view, the islands face the challenge of an ageing population, although they still have a younger demographic structure than the mainland.However, despite these changes, vulnerability persists, as reflected in indicators such as life expectancy.