The Current

Brazilians protest against 'corrupt' government

Over a million Brazilians have taken to the streets this week to protest President Dilma Rousseff for what they say is the biggest corruption scandal in the country, which has cost the population jobs.
Protesters in Brazil are demanding President Dilma Rousseff's impeachment in light of the worst recession in a century coupled with a corruption scandal. (Paulo Whitaker/Reuters)

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The biggest scandal in Brazil's history has plunged the country into chaos. 

This past week, protests have spilled into the streets of Brazil with police estimates of over a million people participating in demanding the impeachment of President Dilma Rousseff.

So many Brazilian officials are under investigation that as Stephanie Nolen puts it, 'the guy who sells newspapers on my corner is about the only person not under investigation.' (Victor Moriyama/Getty Images)

Currently, 74 of the most senior political figures in Brazil are under investigation for alleged corrupt activity — five of whom are in line to succeed the president should an impeachment happen.

"House of Cardsis Little House on the Prairiecompared to [Brazil] at this point."- Stephanie Nolen on the widespread corruption being protested

These demonstrations come out at a time where Brazil has seen its worst recession in a century. Those protesting say they blame the current financial situation and rising unemployment on the alleged corruption of these officials.

Guests in this segment:

  • Dr. Eduarda Jardim, participant in Sunday's protest against Brazil's president.
  • Stephanie Nolen, Latin America bureau chief for The Globe and Mail.
  • Alfredo Saad Filho, professor of political economy at the University of London.

This segment was produced by The Current's Pacinthe Mattar and Leif Zapf-Gilje.