Jair Bolsonaro has exhibited authoritarian tendencies by using the Armed Forces to pressure democratic institutions, fueling violence against the media, and making policy changes without congressional approval. Investigative reports suggest he may have leveraged the Brazilian Intelligence Agency to intimidate opponents. Despite these actions, Brazilian democracy has endured. Political science professors Carlos Pereira and Marcus André Melo explore why in their new book from Companhia das Letras. Pereira argues that Brazil’s multiparty system has been key in curbing the power of the Executive branch.
They discuss how a vigilant society, media outlets, and robust institutions have worked to contain Bolsonaro’s autocratic tendencies, offering a counterintuitive perspective on Brazilian democracy’s resilience. While facing threats, institutions have responded appropriately, safeguarding the democratic framework. The book emphasizes the significance of individual performances within institutional frameworks and the role of civil society in maintaining democratic values. Despite challenges, the overall trend has been positive.
The book delves into episodes of Brazil’s political landscape, providing insights into the country’s complex system of checks and balances. It highlights the role of actors like Justice Alexandre de Moraes and the press in upholding democratic norms. The authors suggest that while democracy faced challenges during Bolsonaro’s tenure, the system held firm due to a combination of institutional strength, societal mobilization, and a multiparty political landscape.
Background reading:
- The Brazilian Report previously reported on concerns surrounding Bolsonaro’s post-election behavior.
- Analysis of Bolsonaro’s refusal to accept election results.
- Addressing calls for a military coup post-election.
- Incidents of radical groups attempting to incite a coup following Lula’s inauguration.
- An exploration of Brazil’s far-right extremist groups.
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