Brazil’s Welfare Wave: Half the Nation on Government Aid
Approximately 95 million Brazilians, nearly half of the country’s population, rely on government benefits for support. Programs like Bolsa Família and INSS provide financial assistance to around 47% of the population, totaling over R$90 billion annually. Bolsa Família alone aids 20.8 million households, while INSS supports 34.1 million retirees.
Despite a workforce of 175 million individuals, state assistance remains crucial in bridging economic disparities. The criteria for aid, with per capita income limit of R$218, reflects the harsh realities faced by many Brazilians, indicating a vulnerable population.
Regional discrepancies in benefit distribution highlight broader socio-economic divides, with states like Maranhão having a higher dependency on aid compared to Santa Catarina. The government assistance not only helps stabilize the lives of millions but also acts as a lifeline for those in need.