Basic human values in Portugal: exploring the years 2002 to 2020

Understanding the evolution of societal values is crucial amidst globalization and migration. This study aimed to (1) map Portugal’s basic human values (BHVs) profile in 2020 through comparison with six European countries (Bulgaria, France, United Kingdom, Hungary, Italy, and Norway) and (2) analyze Portugal’s BHVs trajectory from 2002 to 2020. Drawing on Schwartz’s theory and European Social Survey (ESS) data, we applied descriptive statistics, similarity indices, post-stratification weighting, and trend analysis after extensive data cleaning. Results indicate that in 2020, Portugal displayed high self-transcendence and relatively high openness to change, aligning most closely with the United Kingdom and Hungary. Longitudinal analysis revealed a shift after 2012, marked by rising hedonism, stimulation, and self-direction, and declining conformity. These value dynamics offer insights into future societal demands and potential tensions. Moreover, Portugal’s emerging value configuration—balancing self-transcendence with growing openness—may foster economic opportunities by enhancing attractiveness for innovation ecosystems (linked to self-direction and stimulation), experience-driven tourism (hedonism), and investments aligned with sustainable and social goals (universalism and benevolence). Monitoring value changes remains essential to anticipate societal transformations and inform policy design.