Brazilians Head to Polls with Fear of Bolsonaro Coup and Possibility of Lula Win Bolstering Left

In Brazil's recent election, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva defeated incumbent Jair Bolsonaro, marking a significant political shift. Despite fears of a coup and voting impediments by the Federal Highway Police, Lula's victory was confirmed, though Bolsonaro has not conceded. The election reflects broader leftist trends in Latin America, with Lula's policies focusing on reducing hunger and promoting multilateralism. The right remains influential, with potential future challenges. Lula's win is seen as part of a resurgence of leftist politics in the region, though he faces significant economic and political obstacles.

The Rough Guide to the Top LGBTQ+ Friendly Places in Europe

The article introduces 'The Rough Guide to the Top LGBTQ+ Friendly Places in Europe,' a new coffee-table book from Rough Guides. This book lists 20 European destinations known for being welcoming to LGBTQ+ travellers and includes historical context and profiles of notable LGBTQ+ figures from each location. The destinations are selected by experts and organized by season to facilitate year-round travel planning. The guide provides a concise overview of each place, along with tips on sightseeing, dining, accommodation, and shopping. The book is richly illustrated with photographs and maintains Rough Guides' straightforward style of sharing travel information.

New Internationalist article on housing occupations in São Paulo, Brazil (behind paywall)

New Internationalist article on housing occupations in São Paulo, Brazil (behind paywall)

Richard Matoušek

The article discusses the high housing costs in Lisbon, which have escalated to the point where the city is considered less affordable for renters than New York. It critiques the attempts to address the housing affordability issue through market-based solutions, suggesting that such approaches have exacerbated the problem rather than resolving it.

After Bolsonaro, Can Brazil Move Beyond Neoliberalism and Toward Greater Global Cooperation?

The article discusses the aftermath of Brazil's election, where Luiz Inácio “Lula” da Silva defeated incumbent Jair Bolsonaro. It highlights the challenges Lula faces, including reducing the hunger crisis and moving away from neoliberal policies. The article also touches on the potential for greater global cooperation under Lula's leadership, particularly through multilateralism and environmental initiatives. It notes the resilience of the right-wing in Brazil and the significant role media will play in shaping political discourse. The article concludes with cautious optimism for progressive policies under Lula's administration.

After Bolsonaro, Can Brazil Move Beyond Neoliberalism and Toward Greater Global Cooperation?

Brazil's election saw Luiz Inácio 'Lula' da Silva of the Workers’ Party defeat incumbent President Jair Bolsonaro, marking the first time an incumbent was beaten since the country's return to democracy in the 1980s. Despite facing obstructions from the Federal Highway Police and not receiving a concession from Bolsonaro, Lula's victory was recognized internationally. The election's aftermath raises questions about the future of neoliberalism in Brazil and the potential for greater global cooperation, especially in light of Lula's proposed policies and the Pink Tide's resurgence in Latin America. Lula's challenges include addressing Brazil's hunger crisis and navigating international relations, particularly with the BRICS nations and the United States.

Real Estate Speculation Has Made Lisbon One of the World’s Most Unlivable Cities

Lisbon's housing crisis has been exacerbated by real estate speculation, tourism, and neoliberal policies, making it one of the world's least livable cities. The city's focus on tourism and investment, coupled with austerity measures, has driven up rents and forced many residents out. Despite attempts to address the issue, such as the Affordable Rent Program and Secure Rent Program, these measures have largely failed. The crisis has catalyzed activism, but the new center-right administration appears unlikely to implement significant changes. The situation reflects broader trends in global cities facing similar challenges.

Round Election Amid Brazil's Contradictions

The article discusses the upcoming Colombian presidential election, highlighting the candidacies of Francia Márquez and Gustavo Petro. Márquez, an Afro-descendant woman, is running with the support of Polo Democrático Alternativo, while Petro is the favored left-wing candidate from Colombia Humana. The election is seen as highly consequential, with Petro leading in polls but facing criticism for his stance on Venezuela. The article also explores the socio-political context in Colombia, including issues of violence, displacement, and inequality. Márquez's grassroots campaign emphasizes collectivism and the rights of marginalized communities, while Petro's potential presidency is viewed as a significant shift for Colombia and the broader Latin American left.