Brazil: Anti-government protest in Rio October 3

Event

Several organizations and unions have called for a protest to take place in Rio de Janeiro on Tuesday, October 3, against recent privatizations and social spending cuts introduced by the Temer government. A demonstration is expected to start at 11:00 (local time) in front of the Eletrobras building on Avenida Presidente Vargas. Transportation disruptions and an increased security presence is to be anticipated surrounding all gatherings and protests. Low-level violence is possible, especially if the security forces attempt to disperse the crowd.

Context

Brazil has seen a series of protests in response to reforms and policies proposed by President Michel Temer. Numerous opposition groups, labor unions, and civil society organizations consider former President Dilma Rousseff's ouster and Temer's arrival in office to be illegitimate.

President Temer survived a vote by the lower house of congress on August 2. Had it been successful, the vote would have referred Temer to the Supreme Court over bribery allegations. The scandal has sparked various protests and prompted eight impeachment filings. Temer has reiterated that he will not step down but remains under investigation.

Advice

Individuals in Rio de Janeiro are advised to avoid all demonstrations as a precaution and anticipate transportation disruptions in the vicinity of protests.