The Ongoing Struggle for Democracy in Brazil's 2018 Election
As the 2018 election approaches in Brazil, the greatest challenge the country faces is the preservation of its democratic institutions. Brazil has seen firsthand the perils of democratic backsliding, a phenomenon where democratic processes and institutions are manipulated to undermine the democratic system itself. The ongoing crisis in Brazil's politics and economy serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of democratic systems worldwide.
Conditions Ripe for Dictatorship
The current economic crisis in Brazil, coupled with political turmoil, creates an environment where democratic norms and institutions are under threat. The impeachment of the previous president and the ongoing legal proceedings against her predecessor highlight the deep fissures in the country's political landscape. Additionally, the actions of President Temer, who has spent much of his tenure working to undermine the platform of his own party, further exacerbate these issues. The country's violent backdrop, with over 61,283 murders in 2016, adds another layer of complexity to the political climate.
An Authoritarian Threat on the Horizon
Jair Bolsonaro, with his authoritarian stance and divisive rhetoric, poses a significant threat to Brazil's democracy. Despite his controversial positions on LGBTQ and women's rights, Bolsonaro's inconsistent political affiliations and unwholesome views on various aspects of governance make him a dangerous candidate. His admiration for past military regimes and promotion of a dictatorial system raise red flags for those concerned about the future of democracy in Brazil. Bolsonaro's views on torture, the death penalty, and his propensity to use violence to combat corruption further underscore his incompatibility with democratic principles.
Comparisons to Other Authoritarian Leaders
Bolsonaro is often compared to figures like Donald Trump, who similarly wants to curtail democratic freedoms. However, the comparison to Trump is misleading. While Trump's rhetoric may have fueled populist sentiment, the United States' robust constitutional framework and strong democratic institutions prevent him from becoming an authoritarian leader. In contrast, Brazil's modern democracy, barely three decades old, lacks these same safeguards. Simple actions like a burning Reichstag or an Enabling Act could potentially destabilize the system and plunge the country into a democratic crisis.
Concluding Call to Action
To the Brazilian electorate, the choice is clear. Every vote counts in this critical election. The fate of Brazil's democracy is at stake. While none of the candidates are ideal, the dangers posed by Bolsonaro should not be underestimated. Voting wisely and thoughtfully could determine whether Brazil continues its democratic trajectory or takes a step backward into authoritarianism.
In the end, the 2018 election in Brazil is not just about choosing a leader but about safeguarding the very foundation of the country's democratic institutions. The struggle for democracy is ongoing, and every citizen has a role to play in ensuring its survival.