Tuesday, September 27, 2016

BRAZIL:"High School education reform is on the way"

Temer's government has just shown its first intentions concerning high school education. The high school reform which is envisaged promises to agitate the educacional system in a way that no one has seen in recent years.
Some points were highlighted by the media in recent days: course load increase (from 800 to 1400 hours/year) - progressive expansion of schools with a full time schedule. 
Teaching will be divided into two stages. A first stage would be common to all students with regard to curricular programme. On the second stage a student might choose one area of his interest and specialize in it - math, languages, natural sciences, human sciences, technical and professional courses. Some complementary subjects will be required over high school years: math, portuguese language and english.
Not surprisingly, this reform is causing controversy among not only several political quadrants, but also society as a whole. Some current complementary subjects are being left behind and this is just the tip of the iceberg.
However, the government in a somewhat awkwardly way, stressed that it is essential to move forward with an educational reform, even though it will be the Curriculum national basis defining the various stages of basic education. The most important education protagonists will have the chance to shape a new assumption for an education which safeguards students interests. More than the number of hours students spend in school, it's much more important the teaching method efficiency and the contents taught. 

Tuesday, September 20, 2016

" Privatisations, the storm of unemployment and the dying fall of Lula"

The government of Michel Temer announced the plan "Crescer"(grow). It aims to achieve concessions and privatisations for the next two years. There are 32 projects distributed over several sectors: roads, railways, ports, mining and energy. In 2017 this plan foresees a collection around $ 7,5 Billion.
Unemployment is naturally one of the main tragic consequences of the political economic crisis. In 2015 Brazil had a cutting employment of over 1.5 million formal jobs. It was the biggest cut since there is official registration.
For the first time, former President Lula was formally accused within Lava jato operation. The Paraná Federal Prosecution Office charges him of passive corruption and money laundering. The huge sums  of money received by Lula's foundation related to his lectures is also under investigation. Once called a messiah by many brazilians, now Lula faces the Judge Sérgio Moro (nicknamed by some the super-judge).


Monday, September 12, 2016

BRAZIL:"The Military regime option is increasingly gaining ground among a fringe of Brazilian society"

"The Military regime option is increasingly gaining ground among a fringe of Brazilian society"

The military regime solution is becoming very popular due to a constant political mess and turmoil which appears not coming to an end. This mood didn't arise overnight. Most of the athletes who won olympic medals in Rio de Janeiro were under the army competency. They saluted the flag during the national anthem demonstrating a patriotism that was questioned by some. However, the population in most cases approved this gesture, since it only showed one thing: patriotism.
From the time the Workers Party (PT) has begun to crumble, especially its main figures- Lula and Dilma lost of credibility, the military regime supporters make their voices heard and gain ground, condemning not only the PT, but also the other main parties (constantly involved in corruption schemes).
Brazilian democracy is rather immature. It succeded a military dictatorship (1964-1985). Unfortunately, since then, there were several periods where corruption and other negative factors, were haunting the main political representatives of the State.
Temer's first days have been rather difficult showing a faltering and uncoordinated government.
Let's hope Brazil finally keep pace with sustainable development once and for all. 


Tuesday, September 6, 2016

BRAZIL:"Temer's first moves after booting Dilma out":

"Temer's first moves after booting Dilma out":

The President of Brazil, Michel Temer is trying to suggest Brazil has returned to its regular routine. The world must see a country that shows some credibility.
Temer's image is vulnerable, especially after the sharp fractionation of his base of support in the vote on the political rights of Dilma. Protests and demonstrations against his government are causing more discomfort than expected.
But not all the news have been bad. The urgent measures which Temer wants to apply have been posted here and it seems they aren't forgotten. Now is the time to take unpopular key measures. If Brazil wants to roar back, first needs to adjust the economy.
 Brazil hasn't the money to invest in infrastructure, but from China there are big companies which have a keen interest in this matter seeking long-term projects.
CBS steel- $USD 3 Billion for the steel industry in Maranhão is expected to be invested.
China Communications company - capital investment of $USD 460 million in a cargo terminal in Sao Luís.
Hunan Dakang- $USD 1 Billion investment in Brazilian agriculture.
Embraer- closed the deal of selling 4 aircraft to two chinese corporate groups.

Friday, September 2, 2016

BRAZIL-"The impeachment is approved: is this the swan song for Dilma?"

"The impeachment is approved: is this the swan song for Dilma?"

After a long stalemate in Brazilian politics, Dilma Rousseff is definitely out of office. The senate voted largely for her destitution (61 X 20).
However, when everybody thought that Dilma's political "burial" was materialized, the Brazilian politicians surprised us with another political manoeuvre. Violating the Constitution politicians decided to make a separate vote about wether or not Dilma should mantain her political rights. And guess what? This time Dilma wins.
Thus, current situation besides being bizarre might be awkward for Temer winning legitimacy among the population. It also opens a dangerous precedent which can favour the politicians who find themselves engaged in court processes.