Brazil: General strike planned in Rio de Janeiro June 30

Event

A number of civil society groups, including UerjResiste and Black Bloc, are planning to hold a general strike in Rio de Janeiro on Friday, June 30. According to the United States Consulate General in the city, the strike will start at 17:00 and end at 23:59 (local time). The main rally is expected to take place at Igreja Nossa Senhora da Candelária. Anticipate localized traffic disruptions and increased security measures in the area.

Context

The groups are calling for President Michel Temer to step down. Temer was officially charged with corruption by the Prosecutor General on Monday, June 26. The corruption allegations against Temer and his administration have increased popular discontent and deepened an already acute political crisis. A recorded conversation of President Temer purportedly showing him discussing the payment of hush money to a jailed politician led to the opening of a formal probe by the Supreme Court on May 19. The scandal has sparked various protests and prompted eight impeachment filings. Temer has reiterated that he will not step down.

On a related note, Brazil has seen a series of protests in response to reforms proposed by President Temer. Numerous opposition groups, labor unions, and civil society organizations consider former President Rousseff's ouster and Temer's arrival in office to be illegitimate.

Advice

Individuals in Rio de Janeiro are advised to avoid all demonstrations and to monitor the situation.