Brazil: Protests expected in the coming days and weeks amid political crisis

Event

On Thursday, May 18, Brazil’s Supreme Court announced that it would open a corruption investigation into President Michel Temer. The investigation revolves around allegations reported by one of the country’s largest newspapers, which claims Temer paid a former senator money to stay quiet while serving time in jail. Temer has denied the allegations. Although no concrete plans have been announced, protests are expected to take place in the coming days throughout the country, particularly in major cities such as Brasília, Rio de Janeiro, and São Paolo.

Context

Brazil has seen a series of protests in response to labor and pension reforms proposed by President Michel Temer, whose conservative government come to power following the impeachment of former President Dilma Rousseff. Numerous opposition groups, labor unions, and civil society organizations consider Rousseff's ouster and Temer's arrival in office to be illegitimate.

Advice

Individuals in Brazil are advised to avoid all demonstrations due to the risk of violence, to anticipate transportation disruptions surrounding protest sites, and to monitor developments to the situation.