1. Human Rights in Brazil – An Overview Intermediate Modern Studies

2. Human Rights  We have examined a number of human rights issues in Brazil relating to the following:  Law and Order  Street Children  Landless workers/MST  Native Indians (Indigenous population)  Discrimination/Women

3.  Evidence indicates that human rights are being abused in Brazil in a number of different ways.  However, we must not forget that the government and other organisations have made some progress in improving human rights.

4. President  The President of Brazil is Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva – Workers Party.  He won the Presidential Election in 2002 with 62% of vote and again in 2006 with 60%.  Ordinary Brazilians can identify with Lula – had gone hungry, been poor, previous shoe shiner.

5.  Lula has shown a commitment to improving human rights. Had is re- election emphasised popularity for this.

6. Human Rights Legislation  A number of new laws have been passed to improve human rights, for example:  In 2006, a law was passed stating that street children could only be arrested if they had committed a crime.  Law been changed so ‘honour’ can now no longer be used as an excuse for abusing a wife/mother/sister.

7. Government schemes  A number of government initiatives have been introduced to improve human rights, for example:  Agency called FUNIA set up to protect Native Indians.  2005 Government scheme to encourage children to return to school.

8. Other Organisations  A number of other organisations have tried to improve human rights in Brazil, for example:  Streets Ahead Project (helps street children)  Voluntary groups and support for women.

9. Political Influence  Some disadvantaged groups have tried to improve their rights by gaining political influence.  In 2002, 5 Native Indians were elected to political positions. Many Native Indians also ran as candidates in the 2006 elections. Hope to shape a better future for their people.