might have been right

The country has been in a recession for more than seven years, the longest recession on record since the twenties. Unemployment is rising and so are bankruptcies and emmigration. Workers are losing their jobs and their homes. Taxes have been increased and so have tax abuses. One of their major banks is in serious trouble. Important social institutions, such as education and justice, seem to be beyond reform. And yet, what do the Portuguese do?

They talk. Actually, they talk and talk and talk. As for action, do not count on them. How many Portuguese people would be ready to risk their salaries, their jobs or their wealth to confront those in power who are responsible for some of these situations and abuses? Let´s face it, not many. It must be recognized that the Portuguese fear power, they are afraid of it. Do not be impressed by their big talk. When things get serious, they always tend to side with power. Franco might have been right when he allegedly said that there is some cowardice in Portuguese culture.