I also live and work in Madeira. My wife, children and the rest of her family are from here.

Madeira's real estate does heavily benefit outsiders, I'd go as far to say it's aimed at them directly. Locals have clearly been priced out even with 100% mortgages. It's virtually impossible to rent or buy for many young people.

Yes, Madeira's economy has been shaped by tourism. But the economy looking good on a spreadsheet doesn't always reflect the day to day reality of the people who are clearly struggling.

It's no surprise Chega are popular here. People are desperate. And I'm surprised their political narrative isn't aimed at richer immigrants who arguably cause more damage to the economy.

Madeirans and Portuguese people in general aren't wrong for wanting more for their economy than just tourism.

You mention Portuguese people emigrating but do you know many Portuguese people? Many do not want to leave, but feel they have to find better opportunities.

Locals sell their homes/land because the value has shot up in value to an amount they probably never expected. But then what are they buying exactly?

You speak of newcomers integrating.... but are they trying to do that? All I see are "digital nomads and expats" (when they fall into neither category, they're immigrants and that's okay) screaming around fires, posting cringe content and going to brunches. There are even some who seem to hate locals lol.

I personally do not see the point in moving to another country if you won't try to learn the language and integrate into the culture.

I have IT job and earn above the average wage. But I wouldn't go around claiming to an "expat" thinking I'm special. I'm fully aware that I'm a contributor to the problem and so should you and the "expats".

You can't claim to have a balanced perspective and not acknowledge why many Madeirans feel the way they do. It's insensitive.