People's Youth (Portugal)
The People's Youth (Portuguese: Juventude Popular) is the youth organization of the CDS – People's Party (Portuguese: CDS – Partido Popular), a conservative and Christian democratic political party in Portugal.
Founded in 1975, shortly after the Carnation Revolution, the Juventude Popular aims to represent and mobilize young people within the CDS-PP's political ideology. It focuses on issues relevant to young Portuguese citizens, advocating for policies aligned with the party's core principles, such as free markets, individual responsibility, and traditional values.
The organization actively participates in political debates, organizes campaigns and events, and aims to train future leaders for the CDS-PP. The Juventude Popular also engages in dialogue with other youth political organizations both within Portugal and internationally. Its organizational structure mirrors that of the CDS-PP, with local and national branches. The National Congress is the supreme body of the JP, electing its National Leadership.
The JP has played a role in shaping the CDS-PP's policies and platform, particularly on issues related to education, employment, and youth engagement in politics. It also provides a platform for young people to participate in the political process and contribute to the development of Portugal.