Human resources management in the Portuguese Army: challenges, strategies and perspectives for military retention

This article analyses personnel retention challenges in the Portuguese Army through the lens of Human Resource Management (HRM). A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining a systematic literature review with a survey of 361 military personnel. Findings reveal that remuneration and benefits are the primary drivers of retention, followed by working conditions and career progression. Qualitative analysis confirms a hierarchy of needs where material factors outweigh symbolic ones. The research identifies critical weaknesses in career planning, work-life balance, and professional recognition. Based on these results, the study proposes recommendations to enhance human resource valuation, increase career flexibility, and strengthen organizational commitment. Ultimately, this research contributes to developing more effective and sustainable HRM policies within the Portuguese Army, while also providing insights that may be relevant to other military organizations facing similar personnel retention challenges.