Brazilian cities register new demonstrations against cuts in education by Bolsonaro government

Thousands of people, mainly students, and teachers from public and private schools, returned to the streets today (30.May.2019) in all regions of Brazil. This is the second major protest against the blockades in education funding promoted by the administration of President Jair Bolsonaro.

The demonstrations take place only a few days after large demonstrations in favor of the Bolsonaro government, which took place last Sunday (26.May.2019). Among Brazilian political analysts, the perception grows that the country is moving towards an ever greater political division.

Brazilian teachers announce general strike for May 15

Although the Social Security Reform begins to move in the National Congress, the policy of cuts in education spending adopted by the government of Jair Bolsonaro may take to the streets students who have overthrown the Dilma and Collor government.

The 2013 demonstrations that would eventually lead to the downfall of the Dilma government began with students protesting against a 20-cent increase in public transportation fares.

Now, with the policy of drastic cuts in the budget of the federal universities of the current government, everything indicates that the student movement can return to the streets. The first test will be on May 15 when teachers will make a general strike. If the movement gets the students' support, the Brazilian social situation may become even more chaotic.

Added to this scenario, the macroeconomic data for 2019 are very negative. There are analysts already indicating that the country may be heading into a new recession. Unemployment growth can also help to amplify the level of dissatisfaction in Brazilian society.

Abraham Weintraub is the new Minister of Education of Brazil

After numerous confusions and the complete paralysis of the Ministry of Education, President Jair Bolsonaro fired the Minister of Education Ricardo Vélez.

The dismissal of Vélez Rodríguez is the second drop in the government ministry Jair Bolsonaro in less than 100 days of this administration. Secretary-General Gustavo Bebianno was fired after a controversy with Bolsonaro's son, Carlos.

The new Minister of Education, Abraham Weintraub is an economist and has worked in the financial market for more than 20 years.

The confusion was so great that in the last 3 months, at least 12 people in important positions left the Ministry of Education. Some of them had not even been replaced, leaving important areas of Brazilian education completely destitute and without command. In 2019, the Ministry of Education will administer a total of R$ 122 billion.