In less than 40 days, Brazil will host the 2014 World Cup and will kick off in their new stadium against Croatia in São Paulo. Brazil is in a difficult process, dealing with the unfinished stadiums, security, and transportation issues. Brazil has been preparing since 2008 as they hosted the Confederations Cup in 2013, will be hosting the World Cup this year, and will also host the Olympics in 2016.
Protests have been consistent due to the high cost of living, government corruption, and transportation fares. Security around the country has increased, since the government promoted their policy of “pacification” , where the Brazilian security controls the gangs in the favelas often dealing with gunfights, drugs issues, and attacks in the area.
The Brazilian government has focused in the favelas, as they are the most dangerous areas in Brazil. They have successfully “pacified” 174 communities by installing permanent police stations, these stations have been going for 6 years. However problems in the favelas are still present today and the drug dealers are not willing to be pacified. The government has spent over £500m in security.
Unfortunately cooperation from the residents of the favelas is not likely, because residents are afraid. These gangs have been present over the last decade. Nevertheless the crime has gone down and the Brazilian authorities say it was time to take action against the crime.
Football fans around the world are travelling to experience this exciting World Cup. The FIFA has predicted that Brazil will be welcoming over 3 million travelers from all around the world. Being able to witness this unique event will not be cheap. Flights for the World Cup are estimated to be over 1,000 dollars. Lodging is very expensive and limited as well.
Brazilian authorities must make sure that security around the stadiums are controlled, as many fans tend to camp outside the stadiums waiting for the matches. Authorities are very concerned about the stadiums. A number of 12 stadiums were built with the price of 2.5 billion dollars, and many of these stadiums are still under construction. FIFA secretary-general Jerome Valcke visited Brazil to analyze the construction, and found problems in the construction of the stadiums in São Paulo and in Porto Alegre. The process of construction was delayed since two workers died in 2013. Valcke is convinced that, together the LOC & Brazil will find solutions to the remaining challenges.
Many projects such as airport expansions, roads, and train lines have been cancelled since the time is running out. The Brazilian government must focus on the most important tasks that must be finished before the event begins. Brazil has spent around 13 billion dollars on the World Cup, and is excited to host the world cup!