Abstract
This chapter aims to contribute to the debate about sub-municipal units (SMUs) in Europe by presenting and discussing the characteristics of Portuguese freguesias. These parishes stand out as a special case in the European landscape, since all municipalities have SMUs that have evolved to become full-fledged, lower-tier local government units. We argue that these SMUs are—de facto—a division of the municipal territory into small units of governance and of democratic representation, significantly under the discretionary authority of the municipality’s government. The chapter describes their historical evolution, legal framework, and organization, as well as competencies, services, and finances. A special attention is given to the recent territorial reform that reduced their number significantly. The analysis is—finally—focused on the future of SMUs in Portugal.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
