Weekly Show

VIDEO | Political violence surges in Brazil and legendary former president turns 75

Also featured: Solidarity feeds the hungry as food prices soar and foreign funds flow to violators of indigenous rights

Brasil de Fato | São Paulo |
Journalist José Bernardes hosts our weekly English-language show featuring the latest news and fun facts about Brazil - Screenshot/Brasil de Fato

This week, in What’s Happening in Brazil, we investigate how political violence in the country is increasing, affecting women in the political sphere disproportionately. This surge is clearly tied to the growth of paramilitary militias, with links to politicians and many times government agencies themselves, who instead of protecting citizens, aids and abets conservative political agendas.

Also in political news, former president Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva turned 75 this week. From humble beginnings to the highest office in the land, Lula is known the world over for his efforts in combating poverty and hunger in Brazil. Persecuted and even being unjustly imprisoned, Lula remains a behemoth in Brazilian politics. We take a brief look at his life’s trajectory in this week’s episode.

In our Culture Talk segment, we delve into how deeds of solidarity are helping to feed hundreds of families through food production from the Rural Landless Workers’ Movement, known as MST. Their efforts are in sharp contrast to those of the Federal government, which is pushing more and more for agricultural production to be exported, raising internal food prices amid an already devastating economic crisis brought about by the pandemic.

This week, we also take a look at how foreign investments are flowing into the hands of companies that consistently violate the rights of indigenous people, and destroy the nations environment.

Finally, as is tradition on the show, we end things by teaching you a delicious local recipe and showcasing some quality Brazilian music.

All What's Happening in Brazil episodes are available at Brasil de Fato's YouTube channel, where you'll also find a special English-content playlist.

Partners who wish to include a longer version of the show in their schedule may contact our international team at [email protected] or send a WhatsApp message to +55 11 993 055 156.

For more news about Brazil and our region, visit our website.

Edited by: Ítalo Piva