Brazil: Nationwide anti-government protests May 24 published /update 1

Event

The Popular Brazil Front and People Without Fear organizations, alongside other social movements and trade unions, have called for mass mobilizations on Wednesday, May 24, which are expected to culminate with the "occupation" of the capital Brasília. Demonstrators will continue to demand the protection of workers' rights as well as the resignation of President Michel Temer, who is current being investigated for obstruction of justice and corruption. The largest gatherings will likely occur in the cities of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.

A heightened security presence and associated transportation disruptions are to be anticipated in the vicinity of the protests. Clashes between protesters and security forces, the use of tear gas to disperse demonstrators, and other outbursts of violence are possible.

Context

A recorded conversation of President Temer purportedly showing him discussing the payment of hush money to a jailed politician led to the opening of a formal probe by the Supreme Court on Friday, May 19. The scandal has sparked various protests and prompted eight impeachment filings. Temer has reiterated that he will not step down.

Brazil has seen a series of protests in response to labor and pension reforms proposed by Temer, whose conservative government came 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