Spotlight on Brazil In Anticipation of Summer Olympics

Bo KendallTHE SANTA CLARAApril 21, 2016

[dropcap]I[/dropcap]n an increasingly globalized world, there is more and more room for countries to develop their influence and become superpowers. Brazil is a country that has all the means to do that. With a population of just over 200 million, Brazil is the fifth-most populated country in the world, which allows plenty of room to draw a dedicated national workforce.

In 2015, Brazil’s GDP cracked the top 10 largest in the world, signifying Brazil’s ability to be a global player. Brazil will play host when the Summer Olympic Games begin on Aug. 6 in Rio de Janeiro, giving them the chance to solidify its nation amongst the current world leaders, but also risking sending its country into economically  and politically-fueled downward spirals. 

Brazil’s national development has not been without its costs.  The political situation within the country has been volatile to say the least.

On April 17, the lower house of Congress voted to start the impeachment process by sending the case of President Dilma Rousseff’s fiscal mismanagement to the Senate for review.  Along with issues in the executive branch, huge amounts of corruption have occurred both within the Senate and lower judicial house. 

The country hosted the 2014 FIFA World Cup, costing them about $14 billion. Combined with the anticipated $15 billion cost of the 2016 Summer Olympics, these sporting events cost taxpayers significant sums of money and contributed to the country’s economic recession.

Last year, Brazil  experienced significant amounts of inflation. Although the International Olympic Committee said that the current economic conditions should not affect this summer’s Games, they could spell disaster for the state.

Brazil has had to drastically lower ticket prices for the Games themselves, as only half of the expected seats have been purchased so far, causing a minor panic among the event planners.

Even without considering the economic implications, the Olympics are a huge opportunity for Brazil to show the world that it is becoming a global leader.

Especially with such significant tensions around the world right now, due to threats like ISIS and relations between the United States and Russia, the importance of the Olympics security to keep its’ guests safe is at an all-time high.

The Olympics have shown time and time again that the host country can either see a huge profit or suffer a catastrophic loss. A well-organized Games could help Brazil earn back some of its national spendings, but losing its investment could turn disastrous for this emerging country. 

This August, with all eyes on the country of Brazil, the Summer Olympic Games will play a major role in the nation’s future. The importance of the Brazilian ability to host a successful Olympics is enormous for the state going forward. 

Bo Kendall is a first year communications major.