efetivos

Efetivos is a term used in Portuguese (and, in its Spanish form, efectiv os) to denote people who are permanently employed or actively serving in an organization. It can also function as an adjective meaning real, actual, or effective.

In public administration, cargos efetivos are permanent civil service positions typically filled through concurso público (public examination) and yielding tenure. They are distinguished from cargos em comissão (politically appointed) and other non-permanent hires. The term signals stability, merit-based entry, and legal protection for permanent staff.

In military and police contexts, efetivos designate the regular, active-duty personnel who constitute the core manpower, as opposed to reserves, conscripts, or civilian staff. The phrase is used when discussing staffing levels, promotions, and personnel policies.

In everyday language, efetivo may describe something tangible or the actual outcome, for example “resultado efetivo.”

The concept reflects historical and administrative distinctions between permanent, merit-based employment and temporary or political appointments, with regional variations in Portugal, Brazil, and Spanish-speaking regions.