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Summary
History – The 28th of January – the date that marks the opening of Brazilian ports to all friendly nations– has never had any relevance in the national civic calendar. This year, however, several events, from the north to the south of Brazil, celebrate the 200 years of dom João VI’s decree. An analogy with the present moment is inevitable, particularly with regard to the situation of the country’s ports, deemed quite deficient and nearing collapse.
Traffic – With increasingly higher congestion rates, the capital of the state of São Paulo is studying alternatives that might reduce the number of vehicles in the streets. One of the proposals is the adoption of urban tolls in the downtown area –an option already proven efficient in other large cities around the world.
Agriculture – At a moment when discussions are being held to combat greenhouse effect and mitigate its consequences, agroforestry systems are gaining space in Brazil. This technique, which has long been in use in Amazonia by traditional communities, consists, basically, in planting without deforesting.
Agribusiness – The target of the criticisms and rejection of many, the Australian-origin eucalyptus culture keeps growing as it involves ever-larger sums of money. With fertile lands and a favorable climate, Brazil has proven to be an ideal place for the cultivation of this species, which is responsible for depleting water sources and streams, and expelling farmers from the countryside.
Refugees – Conflicts in Colombia involving guerrilla and paramilitary groups, as well as regular troops, have led thousands of people to flee the country. Brazil is one of the destinations for those coming from that nation, who, mostly, prefer to remain illegally without identifying themselves, in general for fear of reprisals against relatives who stayed behind.
Culture – Besides melody, harmony and rhythm, Brazil’s grassroots music has poetry, humor and tells a little about the history of the country. Over time, countless composers have contributed to record in their songs important episodes of the nation’s life.
Health – The official statistics of one work accident per minute and one death every two hours are underrated. According to the technical area charged with the issue at the Ministry of Health, the likelihood is that these figures may be at least three times larger, since the only occurrences that are factored in are those involving salaried workers on contract.
Ecology – Plastic packaging is a grave threat to the environment. The intensive use of plastic bags by the retail industry can be traced back to the 1970s. Today they are singled out as a major problem in sanitary landfills, due to the length of time they require to decompose. Biodegradable plastic, in turn, still divides opinions.
Adoption – There is no consensus over the number of children living in shelters who are waiting for a family willing to adopt them. What is known is that the adoption process, viewed as slow and bureaucratic, prompts many couples to disregard the law in their eagerness to adopt a child and, with that, to relinquish certain rights.
Science – Despite the initial optimism regarding the therapeutic possibilities offered by stem cells, most researchers in the field recommend caution. According to them, despite all their potential, many years of study and tests will be needed until they may be used in routine treatments.
Education
• The Brazilian educational problem is not circumscribed to the first school years. Researchers have identified alarming numbers regarding dropout rates in higher-level courses. The data reveal that half of the students entering college drop out along the way.
• The success of an experience carried out in Ubatuba, a São Paulo state coastal city, with Paulo Freire’s adult literacy approach leaves no doubt as to the method’s efficacy. Ironically, this occurred in 1965, during the dictatorial regime, with the support of the military, as the educator endured exile.
Interview – Literary theory professor Suzi Frankl Sperber, a specialist in the work of João Guimarães Rosa, speaks of the literary work of this important Brazilian author, whose birth centennial will be celebrated in June this year.
Juridical Studies – The acronym CPMF (Provisional Contribution on Financial Movement) is widely known by Brazilians. Initially created as a temporary tax, it has managed to extend its validity over time. The government’s intention of extending the charge until 2011 was debated, on 26 October 2007, by the Higher Law Council of Fecomercio.
Thematic panel – Europeans are discovering a new Brazil. This was the theme of a talk delivered by Ambassador Marcos Azambuja at the Economics, Sociology and Politics Council of Fecomercio, Sesc and Senac, on 20 September 2007. In his opinion, between Brazil and Europe there are avenues of historic, cultural and linguistic affinities, and the country is viewed today by Europeans as having reached a level it no longer needs supporting actors.
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