From “Expat Paradise” to Urban Frictions: Lisbon and the Infrastructures of Privileged Migration

At Lisbon’s first [Global Expat Summit](https://www.globalexpatsummit.com/) in early May, mobility was celebrated as a symbol of freedom, innovation and lifestyle. Yet, outside the conference venue, many residents are facing [rising rents, displacement and deepening urban inequality](https://www.euronews.com/business/2026/05/11/which-eu-capitals-have-rents-higher-than-minimum-wages). This contrast reveals how privileged migration is reshaping cities and why we need more reflexive debates about who gets to move freely and at whose expense.

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https://www.eurac.edu/en/blogs/mobile-people-and-diverse-societies/from-expat-paradise-to-urban-frictions-lisbon-and-the-infrastructures-of-privileg-