, Columnist
Land of Samba Is World's Murder Champion
A new report shows the shocking prevalence of homicide in Brazil.
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Brazil has a well-deserved reputation for violent crime. It is so pervasive that people routinely alter their behavior to reduce the odds of being victimized. Stopping at red lights at night? Better not. Thinking of wearing jewelry? Leave it home. Carrying cash? Bring no more than you need and can afford to lose.
Crime also is a symptom of the broader civic distress that is driving the protests that continue to erupt in some major cities. Since Brazil seems unable or unwilling to root out the corruption that makes it difficult to develop decent infrastructure, policing and social services, it's worth asking how it will get a handle on the crime problem.