What’s on the line in Brazil?

It was a big win for Latin America when Brazil got the nod to host both the 2014 World Cup and the 2016 Olympics, for reasons including pride and economics. But there’s cause for concern. The Brazilian Audit Court, which tracks how its government spends funds, cites “widespread problems in most of the 12 host cities,� according to USA Today. Airport infrastructure, bidding delays, and stadium construction are among the woes. Pelé, the retired soccer star and national hero, warns that Brazil runs the risk of embarrassment if things don’t improve. But there’s another concern that could put Brazil’s reputation on the line:

In Rio, authorities are facing accusations they are violating citizens' human rights by forcing slum dwellers to move to make way for the construction of a transit system. Residents of three shantytowns recently filed a complaint with the Organization of American States, saying that the city is arbitrarily relocating them. Eventual pressure by the international body could lead to project changes and delays.

It would be great if Brazil can get its act together so the games can go on as planned, but it would be a step backwards if it did so at the expense of its own people.

[Photo credit: Daily Mail]

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