Beja, Portugal, Sept. 15, 2026 (Lusa) - Prime Minister Luís Montenegro said on Tuesday that Portugal is «a mature democracy, a democracy that works», with a justice system that is «highly competent and staffed by skilled professionals», and that the outcome is always improving.

«Portugal is a mature democracy and has a justice system that is highly competent, with good professionals and results that always have room for improvement,» the Prime Minister said in a speech delivered at the opening of the new Beja Courthouse.

Noting that «everyone says the justice system is in crisis», Montenegro emphasised that this expression «is something inherent to the system itself» and «will always be present», arguing that «some issues are resolved today, but others arise tomorrow».

«There will always be a tendency, in the media, for certain cases – sometimes just one is enough – to create a sense of near paralysis, of a deadlock,» he noted, arguing that, «essentially, the system does work and is working better».

With a floor area of 3,562 square metres spread over three floors, the new Beja Courthouse comprises seven courtrooms, two video-conferencing rooms, 27 offices, an archive, training facilities and a childcare area.

The new Beja Courthouse cost €5.7 million.

SM/ADB // ADB.

Lusa