Environment and Land Conflict in Brazil Essay

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The studied articles and videos have identified Brazil as one of the most diverse nations in the world. From a sociological perspective, there are many people living in urban centers and others in rural areas. There are citizens found in some of the leading forests, such as the Amazon, and lead a nomadic way of life. A good example is the Awá community that has around 355 living members today (Chamberlain). The people are economically diverse since some are rich and others languish in poverty. The culture is also diverse since the country has a vast history of colonization, native populations, and immigration. Some of the people have mixed African, European, and Indigenous ancestries. This diversity explains why evidence-based laws and policies would be essential to meet the needs of all citizens.

Brazil and the United States could be studied as countries that are similar as well as different. For instance, they both have populations that are economically, socially, and culturally diverse. The U.S. has individuals belonging to Hispanic, African America, Asian American, and white racial groups. Inequalities ravage both countries since the rich lead better lives while the poor lack adequate resources. Native populations in these countries encounter similar challenges that affect their experiences in life (Stiglitz 2). However, the level of inequality is more pronounced in Brazil than in the U.S. The American government has implemented different policies to overcome poverty and offer medical services and welfare support to more people. Another aspect is that inequality in the United States is promoted along racial lines while Brazil records disparities across the country.

In Brazil, the land remains one of the controversial issues due to the manner in which it is distributed, owned, and used. While the government has specific departments that control this factor of production, some specific cartels and companies dictate how people rely on it to improve their experiences. Similarly, natural resources continue to remain in the hands of those in leadership positions. This scenario explains why 4 percent of the population controls almost half of all the available farmlands (Raney and Heeter). The analyzed articles describe how and why the poor and the indigenous find it hard to use the available resources. Some companies and elites use the available power to engage in mining, cut existing trees, and engage in other activities without considering the plight of these people. Those who rebel or oppose such actions might even meet their deaths.

The government has a role to control and implement new policies and programs that have the potential to improve the experiences of more poor citizens. However, those in power promote corrupt deals and bribes to ensure that those in leadership focus on their demands. The power of capitalists and tycoons is what makes it impossible for more people to achieve their aims (Raney and Heeter). These gaps explain why proper laws that assure indigenous populations and the poor their resources are needed. In terms of societal structure, some rich people live in urban or productive regions in the country (Chamberlain). Most of the areas rich in various minerals and natural resources are associated with the elites. The poor are forced to live in regions without adequate resources and opportunities that can support their social and economic needs.

The Brazilian society presents a real struggle over natural resources and economic opportunities. Those who have money bribe the system to ensure that the government supports their demands or goals. The example of the Awá community explains how the natives are disempowered and disallowed from pursuing their economic goals. After examining the nature of these struggles, I believe that justice would emerge when the government intervenes and provides equal opportunities and resources to every citizen (Raney and Heeter). Those who have lost their farmlands within the past five decades should have their descendants compensated and allowed to occupy their lands (“Jewel of the Amazon”). A fair outcome will be possible when all people receive equal opportunities, become empowered, and are supported to lead high-quality lives. A reconciliation model would be appropriate that is guided by the truth and fairness and ensure that equality becomes the guiding principle.

Personally, I believe that I can contribute to these conflicts and be part of the solution. Being a resident of the United States, I can engage in activism and write numerous blogs and articles to sensitize and educate politicians, policymakers, and citizens in Brazil about the importance of pursuing justice and supporting the concept of equal distribution of resources (Stiglitz 4). I can also consider the globalization model to encourage more individuals and investors to focus on this county and promote ideas that will address the conflicts as a form of corporate social responsibility. I am connected to what is happening in Brazil because similar challenges are evident in the United States. Such cases of inequality need to be resolved and create new opportunities to empower more citizens to achieve their potential.

Works Cited

Chamberlain, Gethin. “’ The Guardian, 2012, Web.

“Jewel of the Amazon.” Frontline World, uploaded by PBS, 2020, Web.

Raney, Adam, and Chad Heeter. “ Frontline World, 2005, Web.

Stiglitz, Joseph E. The Price of Inequality: How Today’s Divided Society Endangers Our Future. Pontifical Academy of Sciences, 2014.

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