The weeks of August drag on as Brazilians stand by the approaching epilogue of a long political crisis that is at the core of an unthinkable economic imbalance and the consequent delay of a long awaited national emergence.
With the slow passing of time the apparent result becomes ever clearer and the provisional government is set to become definite by the end of this month. That plain change in status should finally legitimize the profound reforms and sour short-term measures now required for the country’s recovery.
The market is prompt to react. After almost two years of exclusively dark prospects at last the prospects begin to improve. Inflation is somewhat under control and the currency holds strong – too strong perhaps for local exporters’ taste, actually. If only a real tightening of fiscal policies is indeed implemented, foreign investments to the country may be upgraded from speculative to lengthier productive ones. The economy will then have become more solid in a country able focus on catching up with all the wasted time.
It is under those circumstances that the Olympic Games come to the land with its analgesic properties. Two years after failing to enjoy the full benefits from hosting the World Cup, distress seems to have ripened Brazil’s attitude to a certain extent. Its perception is made more realistic and responsible than before.
Brazil came to host the two global events by virtue of the fascination its former administration once exerted over important circles worldwide. That means the very regime that was later to fall in disgrace due to its colossally corrupt methods and outspread incompetence in office.
Falling short from having an adequate lasting legacy can also be explained by the combination of those two characteristics. So as August draw closer, Brazilians were no longer lethargic as in the days of the early alarms of crisis in 2014. Instead they braced in anticipation of a possible organizational disaster.
But the evening of the opening ceremony had a welcome surprise in stock. Talent and creativity surpassed luxury and high tech in an occasion of poignant beauty and meaningfulness. National pride would thus live to see another day.
No, the continuing event has not been free from flaws since, but neither has it been the shameful catastrophe once imagined. The IOC is equally to blame for things that did not go as impeccably as some might have called for at the Olympic Village. No excuse for the city’s shortcomings, such as lacking urban infrastructure, endemic security issues or water pollution. Much less for the local audience which at times may have breached the boundaries of courtesy and fair play.
In the end Rio de Janeiro is a truly wonderful place claiming for good leadership to overcome whatever jeopardizes its path of well-deserved glory. More could have been done to its lasting benefit in relation to the Games. Yet, as the say goes, one should not cry over spilt milk. One had better look ahead and make good use of past mistakes.
Now what really seems to save the day is the sheer diversity and tolerance, unmistakable attributes of the Brazilian people. That alone is quite an accomplishment, setting an important example in this troubled world of hours. Leave the rest to hopefully conscientious opinion makers and to education for the new generations to sort out.
