A Brazilian artist used ashes from Amazon wildfires to create a one-of-a-kind mural depicting a firefighter. He said that he wanted to raise awareness about the environment through his work. Take a look at this report.

Brazilian artist uses ashes from Amazon wildfires to create unique mural

Deforestation of the Brazilian Amazon has surged since Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro took office - and the losses amount to a crime against humanity as climate change strengthens, an environmental non-profit charged on Tuesday.

Austria-based AllRise filed a complaint to the International Criminal Court (ICC) accusing the far-right leader of “facilitating and accelerating” Amazon losses with policies that encourage deforestation, land grabbing and illegal mining.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latin-americas-covid-19-death-toll-surpasses-15-million-with-600000-deaths-in-brazil-419306">Latin America's COVID-19 death toll surpasses 1.5 million with 600,000 deaths in Brazil</a>

“Jair Bolsonaro is fuelling the mass destruction of the Amazon with his eyes wide open and in full knowledge of the consequences,” said the group’s founder Johannes Wesemann in a statement.

Bolsonaro’s office did not reply to a request for comment.

The filing is just the latest in a series of charges made against Bolsonaro at the ICC since he took power in 2019, though it is the first to link Amazon destruction to climate change and expected health impacts as a result of warming, AllRise said.

Other complaints criticized Bolsonaro for his handling of the coronavirus pandemic in Brazil, where 600,000 have died, and his policies affecting indigenous peoples. 
The ICC could take years to decide if it will investigate the new complaint, legal experts said.

Marcio Astrini, executive secretary of the Brazilian Climate Observatory, which supported the filing, said the complaint is unlikely to change how Bolsonaro governs but might help push action by other key decision makers, from Brazil’s courts to companies investing in the country.

It could also weaken Bolsonaro’s international standing ahead of next month’s U.N. COP26 climate talks, where Brazil is expected to try to show it can fight climate change while remaining an expanding agricultural powerhouse, he said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pfizer-to-vaccinate-entire-city-in-brazil-as-part-of-study-419741">Pfizer to vaccinate entire city in Brazil as part of study</a>

“It’s one more brick in the wall of shame he has been building for Brazil,” Astrini said in a phone interview.

Precedent

Maud Sarlieve, a human rights and international criminal lawyer who helped compile the AllRise case, said the complaint could test a key ICC statute to “see if it can cover deaths linked to environmental destruction”.

The filing charges that planet-heating emissions caused by swifter deforestation under Bolsonaro’s administration could cause more than 180,000 extra heat-related deaths globally by the turn of the century.

If the ICC accepts the case, the move could help deter other heads of state from enacting similarly environmentally destructive policies, Sarlieve told the Thomson Reuters Foundation in a phone interview.

If it rejects the complaint, “then we can use it to demonstrate that the law is not (fit for purpose),” said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protests-against-president-bolsonaro-spread-across-brazil-417784">Protests against President Bolsonaro spread across Brazil</a>

And if the law doesn’t work in “an extreme situation like the one in Brazil, then it needs to be changed,” she added.

During a speech at the United Nation’s General Assembly in September, Bolsonaro said his government was committed to protecting the environment.

But rates of deforestation are nearly double what they were in January to August 2018, according to government data.

Deforestation of the Brazilian Amazon has surged since Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro took office - and the losses amount to a crime against humanity as climate change strengthens, an environmental non-profit charged on Tuesday.

Deforestation of the Brazilian Amazon has surged since Brazil’s President Jair Bolsonaro took office - and the losses amount to a crime against humanity as climate change strengthens, an environmental non-profit charged on Tuesday. Austria-based AllRise filed a complaint to the International Criminal Court (ICC) accusing the far-right leader of “facilitating and accelerating” Amazon losses with policies that encourage deforestation, land grabbing and illegal mining. Also Read | Latin America's COVID-19 death toll surpasses 1.5 million with 600,000 deaths in Brazil “Jair Bolsonaro is fuelling the mass destruction of the Amazon with his eyes wide open and in full knowledge of the consequences,” said the group’s founder Johannes Wesemann in a statement. Bolsonaro’s office did not reply to a request for comment. The filing is just the latest in a series of charges made against Bolsonaro at the ICC since he took power in 2019, though it is the first to link Amazon destruction to climate change and expected health impacts as a result of warming, AllRise said. Other complaints criticized Bolsonaro for his handling of the coronavirus pandemic in Brazil, where 600,000 have died, and his policies affecting indigenous peoples. The ICC could take years to decide if it will investigate the new complaint, legal experts said. Marcio Astrini, executive secretary of the Brazilian Climate Observatory, which supported the filing, said the complaint is unlikely to change how Bolsonaro governs but might help push action by other key decision makers, from Brazil’s courts to companies investing in the country. It could also weaken Bolsonaro’s international standing ahead of next month’s U.N. COP26 climate talks, where Brazil is expected to try to show it can fight climate change while remaining an expanding agricultural powerhouse, he said. Also Read | Pfizer to vaccinate entire city in Brazil as part of study “It’s one more brick in the wall of shame he has been building for Brazil,” Astrini said in a phone interview. Precedent Maud Sarlieve, a human rights and international criminal lawyer who helped compile the AllRise case, said the complaint could test a key ICC statute to “see if it can cover deaths linked to environmental destruction”. The filing charges that planet-heating emissions caused by swifter deforestation under Bolsonaro’s administration could cause more than 180,000 extra heat-related deaths globally by the turn of the century. If the ICC accepts the case, the move could help deter other heads of state from enacting similarly environmentally destructive policies, Sarlieve told the Thomson Reuters Foundation in a phone interview. If it rejects the complaint, “then we can use it to demonstrate that the law is not (fit for purpose),” said. Also Read | Protests against President Bolsonaro spread across Brazil And if the law doesn’t work in “an extreme situation like the one in Brazil, then it needs to be changed,” she added. During a speech at the United Nation’s General Assembly in September, Bolsonaro said his government was committed to protecting the environment. But rates of deforestation are nearly double what they were in January to August 2018, according to government data.

Brazil's Bolsonaro accused of crimes against humanity as Amazon felled

Brazil star Neymar says next year's World Cup in Qatar could be the last of his career.

The comments by the 29-year-old striker were made in the documentary Neymar &amp; The Line Of Kings,&nbsp;produced by DAZN. An excerpt was published on the channel's Twitter feed on Sunday.

"Man, I think it will be my last World Cup," Neymar said.

"I am facing it like the last World Cup because I don't know whether I will be able to, mentally, to endure more soccer."

"I will do everything possible to get there very well," he added.

"I will do all I can to win it with my country and realize my dream, the biggest since my boyhood. I hope I can achieve it."

Neymar will play with Brazil later on Sunday at Colombia in a World Cup qualifying match. The Seleo leads the 10-team round robin competition with 27 points after nine games.

The striker did not play in Thursday's 3-1 Brazil win at Venezuela due to suspension.

The match in Barranquilla will mark Neymar's return since the 2-0 win against Peru on Sept. 10, in which he turned in a key Brazil performance with an assist and a goal. Despite his efforts, Neymar made clear after the match that he is upset with the treatment he gets at home.

I don't know what else I need to do with this shirt for people to respect Neymar,&nbsp;he said. Local media accused the striker of being out of shape in the 1-0 win at Chile earlier in September, which prompted the striker to walk around shirtless during training to show how fit he is.

Against Peru, Neymar overtook Romrio as Brazil's top goal scorer in World Cup qualifiers, with 12 goals. He is also approaching Pele's record of 77 official goals for Brazil. The Paris Saint-Germain striker has scored 69 times for Brazil.

Neymar has so far played at two World Cups. In 2014, he picked up a back injury in the quarterfinals against Colombia, which stopped him from playing in the 7-1 humiliation against Germany in the semifinals.

In the most recent edition of the tournament, Neymar had just returned from a serious foot injury and turned in an unimpressive performance in Brazil's 2-1 quarterfinals defeat to Belgium. He left Russia amid heavy criticism for his apparently exaggerated reaction to being fouled.

Neymar won the 2013 Confederations Cup title with Brazil. He has also won the gold medal at the Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games. The striker was injured before the 2019 Copa America, which the Seleo won at home.

Brazil star Neymar says next year's World Cup in Qatar could be the last of his career. The comments by the 29-year-old striker were made in the documentary Neymar & The Line Of Kings, produced by DAZN.

Brazil star Neymar says next year's World Cup in Qatar could be the last of his career. The comments by the 29-year-old striker were made in the documentary Neymar & The Line Of Kings, produced by DAZN. An excerpt was published on the channel's Twitter feed on Sunday. "Man, I think it will be my last World Cup," Neymar said. "I am facing it like the last World Cup because I don't know whether I will be able to, mentally, to endure more soccer." "I will do everything possible to get there very well," he added. "I will do all I can to win it with my country and realize my dream, the biggest since my boyhood. I hope I can achieve it." Neymar will play with Brazil later on Sunday at Colombia in a World Cup qualifying match. The Seleo leads the 10-team round robin competition with 27 points after nine games. The striker did not play in Thursday's 3-1 Brazil win at Venezuela due to suspension. The match in Barranquilla will mark Neymar's return since the 2-0 win against Peru on Sept. 10, in which he turned in a key Brazil performance with an assist and a goal. Despite his efforts, Neymar made clear after the match that he is upset with the treatment he gets at home. I don't know what else I need to do with this shirt for people to respect Neymar, he said. Local media accused the striker of being out of shape in the 1-0 win at Chile earlier in September, which prompted the striker to walk around shirtless during training to show how fit he is. Against Peru, Neymar overtook Romrio as Brazil's top goal scorer in World Cup qualifiers, with 12 goals. He is also approaching Pele's record of 77 official goals for Brazil. The Paris Saint-Germain striker has scored 69 times for Brazil. Neymar has so far played at two World Cups. In 2014, he picked up a back injury in the quarterfinals against Colombia, which stopped him from playing in the 7-1 humiliation against Germany in the semifinals. In the most recent edition of the tournament, Neymar had just returned from a serious foot injury and turned in an unimpressive performance in Brazil's 2-1 quarterfinals defeat to Belgium. He left Russia amid heavy criticism for his apparently exaggerated reaction to being fouled. Neymar won the 2013 Confederations Cup title with Brazil. He has also won the gold medal at the Rio de Janeiro Olympic Games. The striker was injured before the 2019 Copa America, which the Seleo won at home.

Neymar says World Cup in Qatar may be his last

In the southwestern Brazilian city of Toledo, you won’t find much vaccine skepticism. About 98% of eligible residents there have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, according to municipal officials.

Most received the vaccine offered by Pfizer, and this week the drugmaker said that presented an opportunity: Pfizer announced that it would fully vaccinate everyone in the city older than the age of 12 so it can carry out a study of the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine.

The company will work with local health officials, a hospital, a university and Brazil’s national vaccination program to monitor the transmission of the coronavirus in a “real-life scenario” after the whole population has been vaccinated with the Pfizer-BioNTech serum, Pfizer said.

The study will follow participants for up to one year to investigate how long vaccine protection lasts against COVID-19 and new virus variants.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pfizer-asks-us-government-to-allow-covid-vaccine-for-children-ages-5-11-418917">Also read |&nbsp;Pfizer asks US government to allow COVID vaccine for children ages 5-11</a>

“Here we believe in science, and we lament the almost 600,000 deaths from COVID-19 in Brazil,” Mayor Beto Lunitti of Toledo said in announcing the Pfizer study.

The study comes after the experimental inoculation of almost every adult in the southeastern Brazilian town of Serrana. That experiment was believed to be the first mass trial of its kind in which an entire town was vaccinated against the coronavirus before the rest of the country.

The experiment in Serrana was conducted over three months in winter and spring. Sinovac’s COVID-19 vaccine was put to the test in the town of 45,000. It was a resounding success, with steep drops in new cases, hospitalizations and deaths, at a time when the rest of Brazil was in the grip of the pandemic.

Brazil has suffered one of the world’s highest death tolls from the pandemic. About 600,000 people have died from COVID-19 in Brazil, according to a New York Times database. Though many experts believe the true death toll may be higher, that is the world’s second-highest death toll. More than 710,000 Americans have died.

Brazil’s president, Jair Bolsonaro, has been ambivalent about the importance of vaccines. Many Brazilians have expressed anger at how slowly their government acquired vaccines and a corruption scandal involving vaccine deals.

In the southwestern Brazilian city of Toledo, you won’t find much vaccine skepticism. About 98% of eligible residents there have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, according to municipal officials.

In the southwestern Brazilian city of Toledo, you won’t find much vaccine skepticism. About 98% of eligible residents there have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, according to municipal officials. Most received the vaccine offered by Pfizer, and this week the drugmaker said that presented an opportunity: Pfizer announced that it would fully vaccinate everyone in the city older than the age of 12 so it can carry out a study of the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine. The company will work with local health officials, a hospital, a university and Brazil’s national vaccination program to monitor the transmission of the coronavirus in a “real-life scenario” after the whole population has been vaccinated with the Pfizer-BioNTech serum, Pfizer said. The study will follow participants for up to one year to investigate how long vaccine protection lasts against COVID-19 and new virus variants. Also read | Pfizer asks US government to allow COVID vaccine for children ages 5-11 “Here we believe in science, and we lament the almost 600,000 deaths from COVID-19 in Brazil,” Mayor Beto Lunitti of Toledo said in announcing the Pfizer study. The study comes after the experimental inoculation of almost every adult in the southeastern Brazilian town of Serrana. That experiment was believed to be the first mass trial of its kind in which an entire town was vaccinated against the coronavirus before the rest of the country. The experiment in Serrana was conducted over three months in winter and spring. Sinovac’s COVID-19 vaccine was put to the test in the town of 45,000. It was a resounding success, with steep drops in new cases, hospitalizations and deaths, at a time when the rest of Brazil was in the grip of the pandemic. Brazil has suffered one of the world’s highest death tolls from the pandemic. About 600,000 people have died from COVID-19 in Brazil, according to a New York Times database. Though many experts believe the true death toll may be higher, that is the world’s second-highest death toll. More than 710,000 Americans have died. Brazil’s president, Jair Bolsonaro, has been ambivalent about the importance of vaccines. Many Brazilians have expressed anger at how slowly their government acquired vaccines and a corruption scandal involving vaccine deals.

Pfizer to vaccinate entire city in Brazil as part of study

Brazil on Friday surpassed 600,000 deaths from the deadly coronavirus, reveals the health ministry. The country of 213 million has also recorded more than 21.5 million cases of the deadly virus.&nbsp;

This comes in when Latin America's death toll from coronavirus surpassed 1.5 million. The toll is at least 1,500,350 deaths, with more than 45 million cases of the virus recorded.&nbsp;

Brazil is the second hardest-hit country, after the United States.&nbsp;After Brazil comes Mexico, Peru, Colombia and Argentina in terms of deaths.

Margareth Dalcolmo, pulmonologist and researcher at the prestigious Fiocruz research institute, while speaking to AFP said, "The situation has improved but we cannot lower our guard."She said that the pandemic could only be considered under control once "we have 80 per cent of the population vaccinated."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-covid-19-update-high-infection-rate-in-0-19-age-group-in-india-globally-new-cases-fall-by-9-419214">Also read |&nbsp;WHO COVID-19 Update: High infection rate in 0-19 age group in India, globally new cases fall by 9%</a>

As of now, 71.4 per cent of Brazilians have received at least one vaccination dose but only 45.9 per cent are fully immunised.&nbsp;

Brazil's vaccination program began in late January, weeks after Argentina and the US. Specialists have blamed a lack of government planning.

Things have dramatically improved from three months ago. However, before this, 2,000 Brazilians a day were dying from the deadly virus.

That death rate dropped below 1,000 at the end of July and kept shrinking until it stabilised around 500 in September.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/they-had-the-vaccines-and-a-plan-to-reopen-instead-they-got-cold-feet-419189">Also read |&nbsp;They had the vaccines and a plan to reopen. Instead they got cold feet.</a>

Brazil is far from seeing "the light at the end of the tunnel, the situation remains worrying," said Domingos Alves, a researcher at the Sao Paulo University's faculty of medicine.

Globally the pandemic has now claimed more than 4.8 million lives, with more than 237 million cases of the disease reported.

Brazil on Friday surpassed 600,000 deaths from the deadly coronavirus, reveals the health ministry. The country of 213 million has also recorded more than 21.5 million cases of the deadly virus.

Brazil on Friday surpassed 600,000 deaths from the deadly coronavirus, reveals the health ministry. The country of 213 million has also recorded more than 21.5 million cases of the deadly virus. This comes in when Latin America's death toll from coronavirus surpassed 1.5 million. The toll is at least 1,500,350 deaths, with more than 45 million cases of the virus recorded. Brazil is the second hardest-hit country, after the United States. After Brazil comes Mexico, Peru, Colombia and Argentina in terms of deaths. Margareth Dalcolmo, pulmonologist and researcher at the prestigious Fiocruz research institute, while speaking to AFP said, "The situation has improved but we cannot lower our guard."She said that the pandemic could only be considered under control once "we have 80 per cent of the population vaccinated." Also read | WHO COVID-19 Update: High infection rate in 0-19 age group in India, globally new cases fall by 9% As of now, 71.4 per cent of Brazilians have received at least one vaccination dose but only 45.9 per cent are fully immunised. Brazil's vaccination program began in late January, weeks after Argentina and the US. Specialists have blamed a lack of government planning. Things have dramatically improved from three months ago. However, before this, 2,000 Brazilians a day were dying from the deadly virus. That death rate dropped below 1,000 at the end of July and kept shrinking until it stabilised around 500 in September. Also read | They had the vaccines and a plan to reopen. Instead they got cold feet. Brazil is far from seeing "the light at the end of the tunnel, the situation remains worrying," said Domingos Alves, a researcher at the Sao Paulo University's faculty of medicine. Globally the pandemic has now claimed more than 4.8 million lives, with more than 237 million cases of the disease reported.

Latin America's COVID-19 death toll surpasses 1.5 million with 600,000 deaths in Brazil

Scores of pinwheels are being pinned up in Sao Paulo to remember the nearly 600,000 Brazilians who died as a result of the pandemic. The memorial is a symbolic farewell to victims, made up of pinwheel walls in one of the city's main squares

Pinwheel walls: an opportunity to say goodbye to COVID-19 victims in Brazil

Thousands of protesters took to the streets in Brazil demanding President Jair Bolsonaro's impeachment.

The demonstrations were held on Saturday against the president's handling of the coronavirus crisis as large crowds were seen in major cities including Brasilia, Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-hospital-chain-accused-of-hiding-covid-19-deaths-417081">Also Read:&nbsp;Brazil hospital chain accused of hiding COVID-19 deaths</a>

Bolsonaro's approval rating has sunk to a new low amid the protests. Reports say more than 160 towns and cities saw massive protests as citizens expressed their dismay over Bolsonaro's governance.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/unvaccinated-brazilian-president-bolsonaro-struts-around-new-york-city-414586/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Among other issues, Bolsonaro has come under criticism for his handling of the virus which has claimed nearly 600,000 lives.

Hundreds of people marched through the central Rio de Janeiro neighbourhood of Candelaria shouting "Bolsonaro out!" which was also emblazoned on several large banners.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-brazil-an-ngo-grows-medical-cannabis-to-help-patients-415560">Also Read:&nbsp;In Brazil, an NGO grows medical cannabis to help patients</a>

Some protesters accused the president of destroying the economy which has been hit by inflation and high fuel prices as hundreds gathered at Esplanade of Ministries in Brasilia.

Similar protests were also witnessed in the northern state capitals of Recife and Belém. The demonstrators&nbsp;were joined by trade unions and left parties, reports said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pfizer-is-holding-brazil-to-ransom-over-vaccine-contract-reports-412122">Also Read:&nbsp;Pfizer is holding Brazil 'to ransom' over vaccine contract</a>

Presidential hopeful Ciro Gomes also took part in the demonstrations in Rio de Janeiro.

Thousands of protesters took to the streets in Brazil demanding President Jair Bolsonaro's impeachment. The demonstrations were held on Saturday against the president's handling of the coronavirus crisis as large crowds were seen in major cities including Brasilia, Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro.

Thousands of protesters took to the streets in Brazil demanding President Jair Bolsonaro's impeachment. The demonstrations were held on Saturday against the president's handling of the coronavirus crisis as large crowds were seen in major cities including Brasilia, Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. Also Read: Brazil hospital chain accused of hiding COVID-19 deaths Bolsonaro's approval rating has sunk to a new low amid the protests. Reports say more than 160 towns and cities saw massive protests as citizens expressed their dismay over Bolsonaro's governance. Watch: Among other issues, Bolsonaro has come under criticism for his handling of the virus which has claimed nearly 600,000 lives. Hundreds of people marched through the central Rio de Janeiro neighbourhood of Candelaria shouting "Bolsonaro out!" which was also emblazoned on several large banners. Also Read: In Brazil, an NGO grows medical cannabis to help patients Some protesters accused the president of destroying the economy which has been hit by inflation and high fuel prices as hundreds gathered at Esplanade of Ministries in Brasilia. Similar protests were also witnessed in the northern state capitals of Recife and Belém. The demonstrators were joined by trade unions and left parties, reports said. Also Read: Pfizer is holding Brazil 'to ransom' over vaccine contract Presidential hopeful Ciro Gomes also took part in the demonstrations in Rio de Janeiro.

Protests against President Bolsonaro spread across Brazil

With Brazil’s presidential election one year away, tens of thousands of demonstrators marched Saturday in Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, and dozens of other cities around the country to protest President Jair Bolsonaro and call for his impeachment over his government’s handling of the pandemic.

Former President Lula takes part in massive protests

Kurupi Itaata, a new dinosaur species has been discovered in Brazil. Reports claim that the Kurupi Itaata roamed the earth 70 million years ago; watch this bulletin for more information.

Kurupi Itaata- A New dinosaur species discovered in Brazil

One&nbsp;of Brazil’s biggest healthcare providers, Prevent Senior, has been accused of covering up coronavirus deaths, pressuring doctors to prescribe ineffective treatments, and testing unproven drugs on elderly patients.

The health maintenance organisation is in the crosshairs of a congressional inquiry into Brazil’s coronavirus crisis.

It all started last month when a group of doctors handed a 10,000-page dossier to investigators containing a series of incendiary allegations against the organisation. The dossier contained claims that elderly patients had been used as “human guinea pigs” for the testing of unproven COVID-19 “remedies” without giving their full consent.

Bruna Morato, the lawyer representing the doctors, appeared before the COVID-19 investigation in Brasília and made further allegations.

As per his allegations, Prevent Senior doctors were pressured into giving patients a cocktail of ineffective drugs, including the antimalarial hydroxychloroquine and the anti-parasitic ivermectin.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecuador-prison-riots-death-toll-crosses-100-416995">Also read |&nbsp;Ecuador prison riots: Death toll crosses 100</a>

This was a part of what is being termed as 'COVID kit'.

The decision to promote hydroxychloroquine as an effective COVID-19 treatment was partly designed to help government ideologues who allegedly wanted to use such information to convince Brazilians there was no need to stay at home during the pandemic.&nbsp;

“The economy couldn’t stop so they needed to find a way of giving hope to people who were leaving their homes. This hope had a name: hydroxychloroquine,” Morato alleged.

The lawyer further claimed that coronavirus deaths had been concealed in order not to compromise the results of Prevent Senior tests allegedly designed to show “Covid kit” drugs were effective against the disease. “This is a fraud,” said the inquiry’s vice-president, Randolfe Rodrigues.

A statement issued by Prevent Senior said that it repudiated the “untruthful accusations” and had always operated within legal and ethical guidelines.&nbsp;

The company further denied it had ever hidden or under-reported deaths.

“Prevent Senior has always respected the autonomy of its doctors and has never fired its employees because of their technical convictions,” the company said.

One of Brazil’s biggest healthcare providers, Prevent Senior, has been accused of covering up coronavirus deaths, pressuring doctors to prescribe ineffective treatments, and testing unproven drugs on elderly patients.

One of Brazil’s biggest healthcare providers, Prevent Senior, has been accused of covering up coronavirus deaths, pressuring doctors to prescribe ineffective treatments, and testing unproven drugs on elderly patients. The health maintenance organisation is in the crosshairs of a congressional inquiry into Brazil’s coronavirus crisis. It all started last month when a group of doctors handed a 10,000-page dossier to investigators containing a series of incendiary allegations against the organisation. The dossier contained claims that elderly patients had been used as “human guinea pigs” for the testing of unproven COVID-19 “remedies” without giving their full consent. Bruna Morato, the lawyer representing the doctors, appeared before the COVID-19 investigation in Brasília and made further allegations. As per his allegations, Prevent Senior doctors were pressured into giving patients a cocktail of ineffective drugs, including the antimalarial hydroxychloroquine and the anti-parasitic ivermectin. Also read | Ecuador prison riots: Death toll crosses 100 This was a part of what is being termed as 'COVID kit'. The decision to promote hydroxychloroquine as an effective COVID-19 treatment was partly designed to help government ideologues who allegedly wanted to use such information to convince Brazilians there was no need to stay at home during the pandemic. “The economy couldn’t stop so they needed to find a way of giving hope to people who were leaving their homes. This hope had a name: hydroxychloroquine,” Morato alleged. The lawyer further claimed that coronavirus deaths had been concealed in order not to compromise the results of Prevent Senior tests allegedly designed to show “Covid kit” drugs were effective against the disease. “This is a fraud,” said the inquiry’s vice-president, Randolfe Rodrigues. A statement issued by Prevent Senior said that it repudiated the “untruthful accusations” and had always operated within legal and ethical guidelines. The company further denied it had ever hidden or under-reported deaths. “Prevent Senior has always respected the autonomy of its doctors and has never fired its employees because of their technical convictions,” the company said.

Brazil hospital chain accused of hiding COVID-19 deaths

According to a World Bank Group study spanning 2019-2020, violence against women has risen 27%, with a 22% rise in femicides, the name for a hate-motivated homicide. Watch this report for more details.

Brazil sees 37% increase in violence against women

Surrounded by barbed wire and an electric fence, marijuana plants flourish under the bright sun on a farm in a mountainous area outside Rio de Janeiro.

But this farm has nothing to do with drug trafficking. It belongs, in fact, to a pioneering Brazilian NGO engaged in the production of medical cannabis to help patients with seizures.

Margarete Brito, a lawyer by training, first started growing cannabis several years ago to relieve the seizures of her daughter Sofia, now 12, who is suffering from epilepsy.

After seeing her condition improve, Brito decided to help other patients too. So she founded the Medical Cannabis Research and Patient Support Association, or Apepi, that produces artisanal therapeutic oils made from cannabis to help patients with conditions similar to her daughter's.

That work has required a lot of effort, since growing marijuana remains illegal in Brazil.

"If we follow the letter of the law, nothing authorizes us to do that," Brito told AFP.

But she and her husband, Marcos Langenbach, were able to obtain an unprecedented judicial authorization to cultivate cannabis for medical purposes in 2016.

Today, their farm -- about two hours by car from the Brazilian capital -- has 2,000 plants growing there to help patients with severe autism, multiple sclerosis and epilepsy.

And despite initial suspicion and pushback from some, Brito says the endeavour enjoys support in Brazil.

"We have real social legitimacy. That's what protects us," Brito said.

<h3>'People have prejudices'</h3>

On a recent visit to the farm, which is protected by an electric fence and barbed wire, agricultural engineer Diogo Fonseca made his way among marijuana plants growing in large black pots and marked with the names of their different varieties: Purple Wreck, Schanti, Doctor, Harle Tsu, Solar, CBG.

hese plants are used to produce therapeutic oils that meet the individual needs of each patient, depending on whether they require a higher or lower dose of cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychotropic substance with a relaxing effect.

Using a pocket microscope, the Fonseca examines each plant to assess the ideal time to pick.

In April, armed police with sniffer dogs raided the farm, after a person who had worked on renovating its laboratory reported Apepi to the authorities.

"A lot of people have prejudices," Brito said. "We explain how our project works to everyone, but this person believed that we were drug traffickers and informed against us," said Manoel Caetano, the farm's manager.

The police eventually realized the farm was a medical cannabis plantation, apologized and left, according to Brito.

<h3>More accessible&nbsp;</h3>

Apepi has forged partnerships with respected scientific institutions, such as the Fiocruz Foundation and the University of Campinas. And it has grown has fivefold over the past two years and now counts 1,500 members.

Among them is Gabriel Guerra, 19, who suffers from a severe form of autism and cerebral palsy. When he was eight, he would have 60 seizures a day. "But when he started to take the custom oil" -- a few drops three times a day -- "the attacks stopped. He started to have more independence, looking for ways to communicate," explained his father Ricardo Guerra.

Thanks to Apepi, the products have become much more accessible to patients: 150 reais ($28) for a 30 ml bottle, while imported products can cost anywhere from 600 to 3,000 reais ($113 to $565).

Apepi is now awaiting a court decision which they hope would allow the farm to increase its production to 10,000 plants starting next year.

But the group is not very optimistic about the prospect of legalization of medical cannabis any time soon -- President Jair Bolsonaro has already indicated that he would veto a bill being debated in Congress.

Surrounded by barbed wire and an electric fence, marijuana plants flourish under the bright sun on a farm in a mountainous area outside Rio de Janeiro. But this farm has nothing to do with drug trafficking.

Surrounded by barbed wire and an electric fence, marijuana plants flourish under the bright sun on a farm in a mountainous area outside Rio de Janeiro. But this farm has nothing to do with drug trafficking. It belongs, in fact, to a pioneering Brazilian NGO engaged in the production of medical cannabis to help patients with seizures. Margarete Brito, a lawyer by training, first started growing cannabis several years ago to relieve the seizures of her daughter Sofia, now 12, who is suffering from epilepsy. After seeing her condition improve, Brito decided to help other patients too. So she founded the Medical Cannabis Research and Patient Support Association, or Apepi, that produces artisanal therapeutic oils made from cannabis to help patients with conditions similar to her daughter's. That work has required a lot of effort, since growing marijuana remains illegal in Brazil. "If we follow the letter of the law, nothing authorizes us to do that," Brito told AFP. But she and her husband, Marcos Langenbach, were able to obtain an unprecedented judicial authorization to cultivate cannabis for medical purposes in 2016. Today, their farm -- about two hours by car from the Brazilian capital -- has 2,000 plants growing there to help patients with severe autism, multiple sclerosis and epilepsy. And despite initial suspicion and pushback from some, Brito says the endeavour enjoys support in Brazil. "We have real social legitimacy. That's what protects us," Brito said. 'People have prejudices' On a recent visit to the farm, which is protected by an electric fence and barbed wire, agricultural engineer Diogo Fonseca made his way among marijuana plants growing in large black pots and marked with the names of their different varieties: Purple Wreck, Schanti, Doctor, Harle Tsu, Solar, CBG. hese plants are used to produce therapeutic oils that meet the individual needs of each patient, depending on whether they require a higher or lower dose of cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychotropic substance with a relaxing effect. Using a pocket microscope, the Fonseca examines each plant to assess the ideal time to pick. In April, armed police with sniffer dogs raided the farm, after a person who had worked on renovating its laboratory reported Apepi to the authorities. "A lot of people have prejudices," Brito said. "We explain how our project works to everyone, but this person believed that we were drug traffickers and informed against us," said Manoel Caetano, the farm's manager. The police eventually realized the farm was a medical cannabis plantation, apologized and left, according to Brito. More accessible Apepi has forged partnerships with respected scientific institutions, such as the Fiocruz Foundation and the University of Campinas. And it has grown has fivefold over the past two years and now counts 1,500 members. Among them is Gabriel Guerra, 19, who suffers from a severe form of autism and cerebral palsy. When he was eight, he would have 60 seizures a day. "But when he started to take the custom oil" -- a few drops three times a day -- "the attacks stopped. He started to have more independence, looking for ways to communicate," explained his father Ricardo Guerra. Thanks to Apepi, the products have become much more accessible to patients: 150 reais ($28) for a 30 ml bottle, while imported products can cost anywhere from 600 to 3,000 reais ($113 to $565). Apepi is now awaiting a court decision which they hope would allow the farm to increase its production to 10,000 plants starting next year. But the group is not very optimistic about the prospect of legalization of medical cannabis any time soon -- President Jair Bolsonaro has already indicated that he would veto a bill being debated in Congress.

In Brazil, an NGO grows medical cannabis to help patients

As the government allows the amazon to turn into the wild west, indigenous groups are taking matters into their own hands. WION tells you how indigenous people are protecting the world's largest rainforest.

Brazil's indigenous group battle against logging & mining in Amazon forest

Brazil’s health minister Marcelo Queiroga has tested positive for COVID-19 after attending the UN General Assembly in New York with President Jair Bolsonaro, according to an official statement.

The Brazilian government said on Tuesday that Queiroga, who had received a COVID-19 vaccine, was the second member of Bolsonaro’s entourage to test positive for the virus since arriving in New York for the 76th session of the UNGA.

“The other members of the delegation have been tested and are negative," said the official Brazilian government press release.

The 55-year-old health minister will remain quarantined in the United States, even as the rest of the delegation has returned to Brazil.

Watch

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/will-welcome-afghan-christians-women-and-children-says-jair-bolsonaro-at-unga-414712/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Queiroga earlier told CNN Brasil that he had worn a mask the entire time when he was in the UN building.

Also read |&nbsp;'<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hes-son-of-a-whe-brazil-president-insults-supreme-court-judge-during-live-broadcast-403596">He's son of a wh**e': Brazil President insults Supreme Court judge during live broadcast</a>

According to reports, Queiroga was with Bolsonaro at several events, including a meeting with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Monday.

Bolsonaro, a vaccine sceptic and who appeared without a mask on several occasions during his visit to the US, has repeatedly asserted that he would be “the last” Brazilian to get the jab.

In his speech to world leaders at a meeting where the Covid pandemic was top of the agenda, Bolsonaro said his government did not support the use of a vaccine passport and stood by treatment of the virus with unproven drugs such as the anti-malarial hydroxychloroquine.

COVID-19 has killed 591,440 Brazilians in the world’s second-deadliest outbreak after the United States.

As vaccination advances in the country, the rolling 14-day average of COVID deaths has fallen to 519 a day, compared with almost 3,000 at the peak of the pandemic in April.

(With inputs from agencies)

Brazil’s health minister Marcelo Queiroga has tested positive for COVID-19 after attending the UN General Assembly in New York with President Jair Bolsonaro, according to an official statement.

Brazil’s health minister Marcelo Queiroga has tested positive for COVID-19 after attending the UN General Assembly in New York with President Jair Bolsonaro, according to an official statement. The Brazilian government said on Tuesday that Queiroga, who had received a COVID-19 vaccine, was the second member of Bolsonaro’s entourage to test positive for the virus since arriving in New York for the 76th session of the UNGA. “The other members of the delegation have been tested and are negative," said the official Brazilian government press release. The 55-year-old health minister will remain quarantined in the United States, even as the rest of the delegation has returned to Brazil. Watch Queiroga earlier told CNN Brasil that he had worn a mask the entire time when he was in the UN building. Also read | 'He's son of a wh**e': Brazil President insults Supreme Court judge during live broadcast According to reports, Queiroga was with Bolsonaro at several events, including a meeting with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Monday. Bolsonaro, a vaccine sceptic and who appeared without a mask on several occasions during his visit to the US, has repeatedly asserted that he would be “the last” Brazilian to get the jab. In his speech to world leaders at a meeting where the Covid pandemic was top of the agenda, Bolsonaro said his government did not support the use of a vaccine passport and stood by treatment of the virus with unproven drugs such as the anti-malarial hydroxychloroquine. COVID-19 has killed 591,440 Brazilians in the world’s second-deadliest outbreak after the United States. As vaccination advances in the country, the rolling 14-day average of COVID deaths has fallen to 519 a day, compared with almost 3,000 at the peak of the pandemic in April. (With inputs from agencies)

Brazil’s health minister, who is accompanying Bolsonaro at UNGA, tests positive for COVID-19

If all goes well, Sao Paulo may see a fleet of small aircrafts that'll ferrt commuters in and around the congested city in near future. Brazillian budget airline Gol has struck a deal to make this a reality. Chief executive of Avolon, the company that'll provide aircrafts to Gol was quoted by Financial Times as saying that the move is going to be a "disruptor" that will "democratise air travel".

Sao Paulo's super-rich have access to helicopters that are often seen flying between the high-end beachfront properties. But for the common citizen, it is the roads and usual vehicles. Sao Paulo has a population of 12 million and has more than 8 million cars. Air taxis may thus help residents of this congested city.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unvaccinated-bolsonaro-forced-to-eat-on-sidewalk-as-new-york-eateries-deny-entry-414618">Unvaccinated Bolsonaro forced to eat on sidewalk as New York eateries deny entry</a>

“Our basic estimate at the moment is that the operating cost here for this aircraft will be the equivalent of $1 per passenger over a 25-mile trip,” Dómhnal Slattery, chief executive of Avalon was quoted as saying by Financial Times. Avolon is providing the air taxis to budget airline Gol.

“We think we can get the cost of this down to the equivalent of an Uber ride, equivalent to downtown Manhattan to JFK.” Slattery further told Financial Times.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/brazilian-airline-ordered-to-pay-for-women-cabin-crews-cosmetic-costs-412220">Brazilian airline ordered to pay for women cabin crew's cosmetic costs</a>

Gol (GOLL4.SA) said on Tuesday that the VA-X4 eVTOL, manufactured by Britain's Vertical Aerospace, would boost its domestic regional offering and help it reach its 2050 carbon neutrality goal, lifting its shares in Sao Paulo.

"The VA-X4 is ideal for a city like Sao Paulo," Vertical Aerospace CEO Stephen Fitzpatrick said in a statement. "Our eVTOLs will transform how we travel around high population density cities that are clogged with traffic."

Avolon, which has agreed to buy up to 500 of the aircraft from the British manufacturer, said it was close to reaching agreement with Asian operators for the remaining 250 jets, with deals expected within 6-12 months.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-bolsonaro-issues-decree-modifying-social-media-moderation-rules-411310">Brazil: Bolsonaro issues decree modifying social media moderation rules</a>

"I would fully expect us to have placed all of our initial 500 order in that time frame," Avolon Chief Commercial Officer Paul Geaney told Reuters.

"We'll be looking to Asia after Sao Paulo."

Gol said the move is part of its commercial strategy to invest in regional air transportation. The airline intends to open up new routes to "underserved domestic markets".

(With inputs from agencies)

If all goes well, Sao Paulo may see a fleet of small aircrafts that'll ferrt commuters in and around the congested city in near future. Brazillian budget airline Gol has struck a deal to make this a reality.

If all goes well, Sao Paulo may see a fleet of small aircrafts that'll ferrt commuters in and around the congested city in near future. Brazillian budget airline Gol has struck a deal to make this a reality. Chief executive of Avolon, the company that'll provide aircrafts to Gol was quoted by Financial Times as saying that the move is going to be a "disruptor" that will "democratise air travel". Sao Paulo's super-rich have access to helicopters that are often seen flying between the high-end beachfront properties. But for the common citizen, it is the roads and usual vehicles. Sao Paulo has a population of 12 million and has more than 8 million cars. Air taxis may thus help residents of this congested city. Also Read: Unvaccinated Bolsonaro forced to eat on sidewalk as New York eateries deny entry “Our basic estimate at the moment is that the operating cost here for this aircraft will be the equivalent of $1 per passenger over a 25-mile trip,” Dómhnal Slattery, chief executive of Avalon was quoted as saying by Financial Times. Avolon is providing the air taxis to budget airline Gol. “We think we can get the cost of this down to the equivalent of an Uber ride, equivalent to downtown Manhattan to JFK.” Slattery further told Financial Times. Also Read: Brazilian airline ordered to pay for women cabin crew's cosmetic costs Gol (GOLL4.SA) said on Tuesday that the VA-X4 eVTOL, manufactured by Britain's Vertical Aerospace, would boost its domestic regional offering and help it reach its 2050 carbon neutrality goal, lifting its shares in Sao Paulo. "The VA-X4 is ideal for a city like Sao Paulo," Vertical Aerospace CEO Stephen Fitzpatrick said in a statement. "Our eVTOLs will transform how we travel around high population density cities that are clogged with traffic." Avolon, which has agreed to buy up to 500 of the aircraft from the British manufacturer, said it was close to reaching agreement with Asian operators for the remaining 250 jets, with deals expected within 6-12 months. Also Read: Brazil: Bolsonaro issues decree modifying social media moderation rules "I would fully expect us to have placed all of our initial 500 order in that time frame," Avolon Chief Commercial Officer Paul Geaney told Reuters. "We'll be looking to Asia after Sao Paulo." Gol said the move is part of its commercial strategy to invest in regional air transportation. The airline intends to open up new routes to "underserved domestic markets". (With inputs from agencies)

Brazil's budget airline Gol to bring flying taxis to Sao Paulo

Unvaccinated heads of state attending the United Nations General Assembly this week may have to settle for a piece of pizza on a sidewalk instead of fine dining at New York's restaurants. Watch this report for more details.

Unvaccinated Brazilian President Bolsonaro struts around New York City

Jair Bolsonaro, President of the Federative Republic of Brazil, addresses the general debate of the 76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Bolsonaro stated that the Afghanistan crisis is a cause of concern to Brazil and that the country will welcome Afghan Christians, women, and children as refugees.

Will welcome Afghan Christians, women and children says Jair Bolsonaro at UNGA

Vaccine skeptic Brazillian President Jair Bolsonaro, who has himself not received Covid jabs, was forced to eat on New York sidewalk on the very first night as city restaurants do not allow entry for unvaccinated individuals. Bolsonaro is in New York for United Nations General Assembly.&nbsp;

Two Cabinet ministers in his delegation posted a photo in which Bolsonaro and his aides could be seen munching on slices of Pizza on Sunday night.

Bolsonaro's supporters praised the "simplicity" of their leader.

Asked by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson at a meeting on Monday whether he had been vaccinated, Bolsonaro replied: "No. Not yet."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/bolsonaro-is-getting-desperate-and-its-clear-what-he-wants-413530">Bolsonaro is getting desperate, and it’s clear what he wants</a>

New York Mayor Bill de Blasio appealed to world leaders, "including most notably Bolsonaro from Brazil," to get vaccinated before attending the U.N. gathering in the city.

"If you don't want to be vaccinated, don't bother coming," de Blasio said at a news conference.

Last week, General Assembly President Abdulla Shahid notified the 193-member states that the U.N.'s COVID-19 vaccination honor system will remain in place for presidents, prime ministers and diplomats. They are not required to show proof of immunization.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bolsonaro-offers-olive-branch-in-his-feud-with-supreme-court-412013">Bolsonaro offers Olive branch in his feud with Supreme Court</a>

Some leaders are staying away and sending a video statement instead because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Brazil's mission to the United Nations declined to comment on reports a Brazilian diplomat had tested positive in New York.

U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said: "We are aware of the reports and are in contact with the Brazilian mission."

Bolsonaro will be the first head of state to address the annual U.N. General Assembly on Tuesday morning.

(With inputs from agencies)

Vaccine skeptic Brazillian President Jair Bolsonaro, who has himself not received Covid jabs, was forced to eat on New York sidewalk on the very first night as city restaurants do not allow entry for unvaccinated individuals.

Vaccine skeptic Brazillian President Jair Bolsonaro, who has himself not received Covid jabs, was forced to eat on New York sidewalk on the very first night as city restaurants do not allow entry for unvaccinated individuals. Bolsonaro is in New York for United Nations General Assembly. Two Cabinet ministers in his delegation posted a photo in which Bolsonaro and his aides could be seen munching on slices of Pizza on Sunday night. Bolsonaro's supporters praised the "simplicity" of their leader. Asked by British Prime Minister Boris Johnson at a meeting on Monday whether he had been vaccinated, Bolsonaro replied: "No. Not yet." Also Read | Bolsonaro is getting desperate, and it’s clear what he wants New York Mayor Bill de Blasio appealed to world leaders, "including most notably Bolsonaro from Brazil," to get vaccinated before attending the U.N. gathering in the city. "If you don't want to be vaccinated, don't bother coming," de Blasio said at a news conference. Last week, General Assembly President Abdulla Shahid notified the 193-member states that the U.N.'s COVID-19 vaccination honor system will remain in place for presidents, prime ministers and diplomats. They are not required to show proof of immunization. Also Read | Bolsonaro offers Olive branch in his feud with Supreme Court Some leaders are staying away and sending a video statement instead because of the coronavirus pandemic. Brazil's mission to the United Nations declined to comment on reports a Brazilian diplomat had tested positive in New York. U.N. spokesman Stephane Dujarric said: "We are aware of the reports and are in contact with the Brazilian mission." Bolsonaro will be the first head of state to address the annual U.N. General Assembly on Tuesday morning. (With inputs from agencies)

Unvaccinated Bolsonaro forced to eat on sidewalk as New York eateries deny entry

Brazil's Covid-unvaccinated President Jair Bolsonaro has said that he will attend next week's United Nations conclave in New York, effectively defying city authorities who recently announced proof-of-vaccination requirements for all attending leaders and diplomats.

"Next week I will be at the UN General Assembly (UNGA), where I will give an opening speech" on Tuesday, the president said during a social media broadcast. It will be "a calm speech, very objective, focused on the issues that interest us," added Bolsonaro, who said he would discuss Brazil's approach to the coronavirus pandemic, its agriculture business, and energy.

On Wednesday the New York mayor's office wrote the UNGA laying out the guidelines, including that delegates must show proof of vaccination to enter the debate hall.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-denies-german-warship-entry-into-harbour-berlin-says-413624">Also read |&nbsp;China denies German warship entry into harbour, Berlin says</a>

The letter signed by New York City's health commissioner said the UN debate hall was classified as a "convention center," meaning all attendees must be vaccinated, just as other people participating in some indoor activities in the city.

Hours later the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres said he could not impose the requirement on heads of state.

Bolsonaro, who had the virus last year, has said he would be the "last Brazilian" to get vaccinated.

Brazil's Covid-unvaccinated President Jair Bolsonaro has said that he will attend next week's United Nations conclave in New York, effectively defying city authorities who recently announced proof-of-vaccination requirements for all attending leaders and diplomats.

Brazil's Covid-unvaccinated President Jair Bolsonaro has said that he will attend next week's United Nations conclave in New York, effectively defying city authorities who recently announced proof-of-vaccination requirements for all attending leaders and diplomats. "Next week I will be at the UN General Assembly (UNGA), where I will give an opening speech" on Tuesday, the president said during a social media broadcast. It will be "a calm speech, very objective, focused on the issues that interest us," added Bolsonaro, who said he would discuss Brazil's approach to the coronavirus pandemic, its agriculture business, and energy. On Wednesday the New York mayor's office wrote the UNGA laying out the guidelines, including that delegates must show proof of vaccination to enter the debate hall. Also read | China denies German warship entry into harbour, Berlin says The letter signed by New York City's health commissioner said the UN debate hall was classified as a "convention center," meaning all attendees must be vaccinated, just as other people participating in some indoor activities in the city. Hours later the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres said he could not impose the requirement on heads of state. Bolsonaro, who had the virus last year, has said he would be the "last Brazilian" to get vaccinated.

Brazil's Bolsonaro to attend UN meet despite being unvaccinated

The Amazons cover the largest place in Brazil in terms of land area. Most of the area is a tropical jungle teaming with untapped natural resources.

Brazilians shift to solar power amid electricity shortage

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro said on Thursday that he will not get himself vaccinated in order to attend the UN General Assembly next week. Bolsonaro, who had the Coronavirus last year, has said he would be the "last Brazilian" to get vaccinated.

Brazil President Bolsonaro refuses to get vaccinated for UN meet

For weeks, President Jair Bolsonaro of Brazil has been urging his supporters to take to the streets. So on Sept. 7, Brazil’s Independence Day, I was half expecting to see mobs of armed people in yellow-and-green jerseys, some of them wearing furry hats and horns, storming the Supreme Court building — our very own imitation of the Capitol riot.

Fortunately, that was not what happened. (The crowds eventually went home, and no one tried to sit in the Supreme Court justices’ chairs.) But Brazilians were not spared chaos and consternation.

For Mr. Bolsonaro, it was a show of force. In the morning, addressing a crowd of around 400,000 people in Brasília, he said he intended to use the size of the crowd as an “ultimatum for everyone” in the three branches of government. In the afternoon, at a demonstration in São Paulo of 125,000 people, the president called the elections coming in 2022 “a farce” and said that he will no longer abide by rulings from one of the Supreme Court justices. “I’m letting the scoundrels know,” he bellowed, “I’ll never be imprisoned!”

It seems to be part of a plan. By picking a fight in particular with the Supreme Court — which has opened several investigations of him and his allies, including about his role in a potentially corrupt vaccine procurement scheme and his efforts to discredit Brazil’s voting system — Mr. Bolsonaro is attempting to sow the seeds of an institutional crisis, with a view to retaining power. On Sept. 9 he tried to back down a little, saying in a written statement that he “never intended to attack any branch of government.” But his actions are plain: He is effectively threatening a coup.

Perhaps that’s the only way out for Mr. Bolsonaro. (Apart from properly governing the country, something that apparently doesn’t interest him.) The antics of the president, struggling in the polls and menaced by the prospect of impeachment, are a sign of desperation. But that doesn’t mean they can’t succeed.

Mr. Bolsonaro has good reason to be desperate. The government’s mishandling of the Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in the deaths of 587,000 Brazilians; the country faces record rates of unemployment and economic inequality; and it’s also afflicted by soaring inflation, poverty and hunger. Oh, and there’s a huge energy crisis on the way, too.

That has taken its toll on Mr. Bolsonaro’s standing with Brazilians. In July, his disapproval rating rose to 51 percent, its highest-ever mark, according to Datafolha Institute. And ahead of next year’s presidential elections, things are not looking rosy. In fact, polling suggests he’s going to lose. Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, the center-left politician and former president, is comfortably outstripping Mr. Bolsonaro. As things stand, Mr. Bolsonaro would lose to all possible rivals in a second-round runoff.

This explains Mr. Bolsonaro’s eagerness to push unfounded claims of fraud in Brazil’s electronic voting system. “There’s no way of proving whether the elections were rigged or not,” he said about past elections (including the one he won), during a two-hour TV broadcast in July, while failing to provide any evidence to support his allegations. He has repeatedly threatened to call off the elections if the current voting system remains in place — and although Congress recently rejected his proposal to require paper receipts, he continues to cast doubt on the voting process. (Sound familiar, anyone?)

Then there’s the corruption. A growing number of corruption accusations have been made against the president and two of his sons, who both hold public office. (One is a senator; the other sits on Rio de Janeiro’s City Council.) Prosecutors have suggested that the Bolsonaro family took part in a scheme known as “rachadinha,” which involves hiring close associates or family members as employees and then pocketing a portion of their salary.

For Mr. Bolsonaro, who was elected in part for his promise to rout out corruption, these investigations cast a long shadow. Against this backdrop of ineptitude and scandal, the events of Sept. 7 were an attempt to distract and divert attention — and, of course, to cement divisions.

Efforts to remove Mr. Bolsonaro by parliamentary means are stalled. Though the opposition has so far filed 137 impeachment requests, the process must be initiated by the speaker of the lower house, Arthur Lira, who does not seem inclined to accept them. (That’s not especially surprising: Mr. Lira is a leader of a cluster of center-right parties, known as the “centrão,” to whom Mr. Bolsonaro has handed out important government positions, in the hope of shielding himself from impeachment proceedings.) Only enormous public protests can break the impasse.

There’s no time to lose. The demonstrations last week were not simply political showmanship. They were yet another move to strengthen Mr. Bolsonaro’s position for an eventual power grab ahead of next year’s elections. He didn’t get exactly what he wanted — the numbers, though substantial, were far less than organizers hoped for — but he will keep trying.

Sept. 7 now marks another signal moment in Brazil’s history — when the totalitarian aims of our president became unmistakably clear. For our young democracy, it could be a matter of life or death.

For weeks, President Jair Bolsonaro of Brazil has been urging his supporters to take to the streets. So on Sept. 7, Brazil’s Independence Day, I was half expecting to see mobs of armed people in yellow-and-green jerseys, some of them wearing furry hats and horns, storming the Supreme Court building — our very own imitation of the Capitol riot.

For weeks, President Jair Bolsonaro of Brazil has been urging his supporters to take to the streets. So on Sept. 7, Brazil’s Independence Day, I was half expecting to see mobs of armed people in yellow-and-green jerseys, some of them wearing furry hats and horns, storming the Supreme Court building — our very own imitation of the Capitol riot. Fortunately, that was not what happened. (The crowds eventually went home, and no one tried to sit in the Supreme Court justices’ chairs.) But Brazilians were not spared chaos and consternation. For Mr. Bolsonaro, it was a show of force. In the morning, addressing a crowd of around 400,000 people in Brasília, he said he intended to use the size of the crowd as an “ultimatum for everyone” in the three branches of government. In the afternoon, at a demonstration in São Paulo of 125,000 people, the president called the elections coming in 2022 “a farce” and said that he will no longer abide by rulings from one of the Supreme Court justices. “I’m letting the scoundrels know,” he bellowed, “I’ll never be imprisoned!” It seems to be part of a plan. By picking a fight in particular with the Supreme Court — which has opened several investigations of him and his allies, including about his role in a potentially corrupt vaccine procurement scheme and his efforts to discredit Brazil’s voting system — Mr. Bolsonaro is attempting to sow the seeds of an institutional crisis, with a view to retaining power. On Sept. 9 he tried to back down a little, saying in a written statement that he “never intended to attack any branch of government.” But his actions are plain: He is effectively threatening a coup. Perhaps that’s the only way out for Mr. Bolsonaro. (Apart from properly governing the country, something that apparently doesn’t interest him.) The antics of the president, struggling in the polls and menaced by the prospect of impeachment, are a sign of desperation. But that doesn’t mean they can’t succeed. Mr. Bolsonaro has good reason to be desperate. The government’s mishandling of the Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in the deaths of 587,000 Brazilians; the country faces record rates of unemployment and economic inequality; and it’s also afflicted by soaring inflation, poverty and hunger. Oh, and there’s a huge energy crisis on the way, too. That has taken its toll on Mr. Bolsonaro’s standing with Brazilians. In July, his disapproval rating rose to 51 percent, its highest-ever mark, according to Datafolha Institute. And ahead of next year’s presidential elections, things are not looking rosy. In fact, polling suggests he’s going to lose. Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, the center-left politician and former president, is comfortably outstripping Mr. Bolsonaro. As things stand, Mr. Bolsonaro would lose to all possible rivals in a second-round runoff. This explains Mr. Bolsonaro’s eagerness to push unfounded claims of fraud in Brazil’s electronic voting system. “There’s no way of proving whether the elections were rigged or not,” he said about past elections (including the one he won), during a two-hour TV broadcast in July, while failing to provide any evidence to support his allegations. He has repeatedly threatened to call off the elections if the current voting system remains in place — and although Congress recently rejected his proposal to require paper receipts, he continues to cast doubt on the voting process. (Sound familiar, anyone?) Then there’s the corruption. A growing number of corruption accusations have been made against the president and two of his sons, who both hold public office. (One is a senator; the other sits on Rio de Janeiro’s City Council.) Prosecutors have suggested that the Bolsonaro family took part in a scheme known as “rachadinha,” which involves hiring close associates or family members as employees and then pocketing a portion of their salary. For Mr. Bolsonaro, who was elected in part for his promise to rout out corruption, these investigations cast a long shadow. Against this backdrop of ineptitude and scandal, the events of Sept. 7 were an attempt to distract and divert attention — and, of course, to cement divisions. Efforts to remove Mr. Bolsonaro by parliamentary means are stalled. Though the opposition has so far filed 137 impeachment requests, the process must be initiated by the speaker of the lower house, Arthur Lira, who does not seem inclined to accept them. (That’s not especially surprising: Mr. Lira is a leader of a cluster of center-right parties, known as the “centrão,” to whom Mr. Bolsonaro has handed out important government positions, in the hope of shielding himself from impeachment proceedings.) Only enormous public protests can break the impasse. There’s no time to lose. The demonstrations last week were not simply political showmanship. They were yet another move to strengthen Mr. Bolsonaro’s position for an eventual power grab ahead of next year’s elections. He didn’t get exactly what he wanted — the numbers, though substantial, were far less than organizers hoped for — but he will keep trying. Sept. 7 now marks another signal moment in Brazil’s history — when the totalitarian aims of our president became unmistakably clear. For our young democracy, it could be a matter of life or death.

Bolsonaro is getting desperate, and it’s clear what he wants

'They have invaded our territories,' thousands of indigenous women from more than 170 tribes stages protest in Brazil to demand protection of their ancestral land.

Brazil: Indigenous women fight to save ancestral lands

In a sign that he wanted to defuse dispute with the Supreme Court, Brasil President Jair Bolsonaro on Thursday said that he never intended to attack any branch of the government. The apparent Olive branch boosted markets.

As pro-Bolsonaro marches took place across Brazil, the president called on Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Maraes to resign and also said that he will not comply with his rulings. This deepened the rift with the judiciary.&nbsp;

On Thursday, pro-Bolsonaro truckers, seeking to support the president in his battle with the Supreme Court, blocked highways across Brazil, threatening key export routes.

As tensions mounted, Bolsonaro put out an official statement on Thursday afternoon seeking to smooth over his tussle with the Supreme Court, whose justices he has accused of preventing him from governing.

Markets reacted positively to president's statement. Brazil's currency stregthened dramatically after the presidency release. It closed 1.8 per cent stronger against dollar.

After losing 4% on Wednesday in the wake of the controversial comments, Brazil's Bovespa stock index rebounded 1.7% on Thursday following his sudden moderation in tone.

In his statement, the former army captain said his occasional strong language came from "the heat of the moment" and any problems with the justices should be resolved in court.

The tensions with Brazil's top court have created one more crisis for the embattled far-right leader.

Bolsonaro's poll numbers are already slipping as he has overseen world's second deadliest coronavirus outbreak, nearly double-digit inflation and stubborn unemployment levels. Presidential elections are due next year in Brazil.

Later in the evening, in a live broadcast on social media, Bolsonaro maintained the conciliatory tone saying he would not step outside the bounds of the constitution and that he did not have any problems with Brazil's institutions.

He said his disagreements were with individual public figures. The president did, however, repeat that he believed the electronic voting system was vulnerable to interference, an issue that has put him at loggerheads with the Supreme Court and attracted condemnation from across the political spectrum.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

In a sign that he wanted to defuse dispute with the Supreme Court, Brasil President Jair Bolsonaro on Thursday said that he never intended to attack any branch of the government.

In a sign that he wanted to defuse dispute with the Supreme Court, Brasil President Jair Bolsonaro on Thursday said that he never intended to attack any branch of the government. The apparent Olive branch boosted markets. As pro-Bolsonaro marches took place across Brazil, the president called on Supreme Court Justice Alexandre de Maraes to resign and also said that he will not comply with his rulings. This deepened the rift with the judiciary. On Thursday, pro-Bolsonaro truckers, seeking to support the president in his battle with the Supreme Court, blocked highways across Brazil, threatening key export routes. As tensions mounted, Bolsonaro put out an official statement on Thursday afternoon seeking to smooth over his tussle with the Supreme Court, whose justices he has accused of preventing him from governing. Markets reacted positively to president's statement. Brazil's currency stregthened dramatically after the presidency release. It closed 1.8 per cent stronger against dollar. After losing 4% on Wednesday in the wake of the controversial comments, Brazil's Bovespa stock index rebounded 1.7% on Thursday following his sudden moderation in tone. In his statement, the former army captain said his occasional strong language came from "the heat of the moment" and any problems with the justices should be resolved in court. The tensions with Brazil's top court have created one more crisis for the embattled far-right leader. Bolsonaro's poll numbers are already slipping as he has overseen world's second deadliest coronavirus outbreak, nearly double-digit inflation and stubborn unemployment levels. Presidential elections are due next year in Brazil. Later in the evening, in a live broadcast on social media, Bolsonaro maintained the conciliatory tone saying he would not step outside the bounds of the constitution and that he did not have any problems with Brazil's institutions. He said his disagreements were with individual public figures. The president did, however, repeat that he believed the electronic voting system was vulnerable to interference, an issue that has put him at loggerheads with the Supreme Court and attracted condemnation from across the political spectrum. (With inputs from agencies)

Bolsonaro offers Olive branch in his feud with Supreme Court

Reservoirs in Brazil's Sao Paulo are drying up. The area which is dependent on hydroelectric powerplants is now facing massive power outages. The government of the country is also mulling to take dire steps to conserve energy. WION brings you a report.

Brazil: Drought hits hydropower plants, Bolsonaro asks people to cut down on power consumption

The illegal gold mining business is booming in Brazil, with miners pinning their hopes on a bill. More than 5000 illegal gold mines are operating in the Amazon forest which results in polluting the Amazon River.

Brazil: Gold miners attack indigenous people

The illegal gold mining business is booming in Brazil, with miners pinning their hopes on a bill President Jair Bolsonaro has sent to Congress that would open up indigenous reservations to commercial mining.

Scars of illegal mining blights Brazil's Amazon

Supporters of Bolsonaro took to the streets of Brazil on Tuesday for independence day protests.

Supporters of Bolsonaro hold protest in Brazil

Illegal gold mining thrives in Amazon, miners attack indigenous people

Supporters of Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro tore down a police blockade Monday night in downtown Brasilia, police said, on the eve of the massive demonstrations that have the country on edge.

Fighting record-low poll numbers, Bolsonaro is seeking to mobilize his base, particularly at the protests in Brasilia and Sao Paulo.

The far-right leader plans to attend both rallies on Tuesday,&nbsp;Brazil's Independence Day, as he tries to build pressure on the supreme court over investigations into him and his inner circle.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-bolsonaro-issues-decree-modifying-social-media-moderation-rules-411310">Brazil: Bolsonaro issues decree modifying social media moderation rules</a>

Hundreds of people arriving to participate in Tuesday's protests "broke through containment barriers" and entered the avenue leading to the National Congress and Supreme Court (STF) buildings, according to the federal district police.

The avenue had been closed to traffic as a security measure.

In videos posted on social media and shared by local news outlets, a small caravan of cars and trucks was seen entering the Ministries Esplanade, cheered on by protesters walking and waving Brazilian flags.

"We just invaded! The police could not contain the people! And tomorrow we are going to invade the STF," one walking protester shouted.

The marches have monopolized public debate in&nbsp;Brazil, including warnings to avoid something similar to the January 6 attack on the US Capitol by supporters of former president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>.

Bolsonaro has often drawn comparisons to Trump.

Also read |&nbsp;​​​​​​​<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fears-of-violence-on-brazils-streets-as-millions-rally-410919">Fears of violence on Brazil’s streets as millions rally</a>

Police reported they were still at the scene. In images shown by CNN&nbsp;Brazil, the situation appeared to be under control.

The federal district government has organized an operation with 5,000 police officers to protect public buildings and help avoid riots.

Opposition groups have also called for protests.

Bolsonaro has said in recent days that Tuesday's rallies should be considered an "ultimatum" for the Supreme Court judges, who have opened several investigations into him and his inner circle, notably over allegations of systematically spreading fake news from within the government.

Despite claiming the purpose of the protests is to defend "freedom," many pro-Bolsonaro demonstrators who organized on social media plan to chant slogans in support of attacks on democratic institutions.

Some are even calling for Bolsonaro to lead a "military intervention."

Supporters of Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro tore down a police blockade Monday night in downtown Brasilia, police said, on the eve of the massive demonstrations that have the country on edge.

Supporters of Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro tore down a police blockade Monday night in downtown Brasilia, police said, on the eve of the massive demonstrations that have the country on edge. Fighting record-low poll numbers, Bolsonaro is seeking to mobilize his base, particularly at the protests in Brasilia and Sao Paulo. The far-right leader plans to attend both rallies on Tuesday, Brazil's Independence Day, as he tries to build pressure on the supreme court over investigations into him and his inner circle. Also read | Brazil: Bolsonaro issues decree modifying social media moderation rules Hundreds of people arriving to participate in Tuesday's protests "broke through containment barriers" and entered the avenue leading to the National Congress and Supreme Court (STF) buildings, according to the federal district police. The avenue had been closed to traffic as a security measure. In videos posted on social media and shared by local news outlets, a small caravan of cars and trucks was seen entering the Ministries Esplanade, cheered on by protesters walking and waving Brazilian flags. "We just invaded! The police could not contain the people! And tomorrow we are going to invade the STF," one walking protester shouted. The marches have monopolized public debate in Brazil, including warnings to avoid something similar to the January 6 attack on the US Capitol by supporters of former president Donald Trump. Bolsonaro has often drawn comparisons to Trump. Also read | Fears of violence on Brazil’s streets as millions rally Police reported they were still at the scene. In images shown by CNN Brazil, the situation appeared to be under control. The federal district government has organized an operation with 5,000 police officers to protect public buildings and help avoid riots. Opposition groups have also called for protests. Bolsonaro has said in recent days that Tuesday's rallies should be considered an "ultimatum" for the Supreme Court judges, who have opened several investigations into him and his inner circle, notably over allegations of systematically spreading fake news from within the government. Despite claiming the purpose of the protests is to defend "freedom," many pro-Bolsonaro demonstrators who organized on social media plan to chant slogans in support of attacks on democratic institutions. Some are even calling for Bolsonaro to lead a "military intervention."

Pro-Bolsonaro protesters break down Brasilia police blockade

Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro issued a decree on Monday changing the rules of moderation of content on social media. The critics say that the decree may hinder fight against disinformation. The decree comes into effect immediately but it has to be ratified by the Congress if it is to be a law.

Bolsonaro himself has had his content removed from social media platforms over alleged&nbsp;disinformation about Covid-19. The far-right leader has maintained that suspension or removal of accounts and content that various platforms have subjected him and some of his supporters to is "censorship".

The new provision establishes a series of hypotheses for which there would be "just cause" to remove content or suspend users -- such as committing crimes or inciting violence -- and imposes new rules for platforms to do so.

"This provisional measure significantly hinders our ability to limit abuse on our platforms," a Facebook spokesperson told AFP. "We agree with legal experts and specialists who view the measure as a violation of constitutional rights."

Alessandro Molon, an opposition politician and rapporteur of Brazil's bill of rights for the internet (MCI), said he was preparing legal action to overturn the presidential decree.

"Its objective is not to protect freedom of expression, the MCI already does that," Molon said. "What (Bolsonaro) wants is to prevent the disinformation and hate speech that he and his supporters disseminate from continuing to be removed from the platforms."

Bolsonaro announced the decree on the eve of Brazilian Independence Day. His supporters are expected to take to streets throughout the country.

Tensions are running high, as anti-Bolsonaro protests have been planned in the same cities, and clashes between the groups could occur.

With polls putting Bolsonaro on track to lose badly to leftist ex-leader Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in next year's presidential elections, the ex-army captain is hoping to use the rally to energize his supporters.

(With inputs from agencies)

Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro issued a decree on Monday changing the rules of moderation of content on social media. The critics say that the decree may hinder fight against disinformation.

Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro issued a decree on Monday changing the rules of moderation of content on social media. The critics say that the decree may hinder fight against disinformation. The decree comes into effect immediately but it has to be ratified by the Congress if it is to be a law. Bolsonaro himself has had his content removed from social media platforms over alleged disinformation about Covid-19. The far-right leader has maintained that suspension or removal of accounts and content that various platforms have subjected him and some of his supporters to is "censorship". The new provision establishes a series of hypotheses for which there would be "just cause" to remove content or suspend users -- such as committing crimes or inciting violence -- and imposes new rules for platforms to do so. "This provisional measure significantly hinders our ability to limit abuse on our platforms," a Facebook spokesperson told AFP. "We agree with legal experts and specialists who view the measure as a violation of constitutional rights." Alessandro Molon, an opposition politician and rapporteur of Brazil's bill of rights for the internet (MCI), said he was preparing legal action to overturn the presidential decree. "Its objective is not to protect freedom of expression, the MCI already does that," Molon said. "What (Bolsonaro) wants is to prevent the disinformation and hate speech that he and his supporters disseminate from continuing to be removed from the platforms." Bolsonaro announced the decree on the eve of Brazilian Independence Day. His supporters are expected to take to streets throughout the country. Tensions are running high, as anti-Bolsonaro protests have been planned in the same cities, and clashes between the groups could occur. With polls putting Bolsonaro on track to lose badly to leftist ex-leader Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in next year's presidential elections, the ex-army captain is hoping to use the rally to energize his supporters. (With inputs from agencies)

Brazil: Bolsonaro issues decree modifying social media moderation rules

brazil

Brazil, News on Brazil, stories on Brazil, articles on Brazil, Brazil stories at Wion, Brazil news, Brazil latest news