"We are a dishonest people"

So says a polemical opinion piece in today's edition of Estadao newspaper.

The article is headlined "Desonestidade é cultura", dishonesty and culture. The author's main point is that Brazilians like to talk about the shortcomings of their country and compatriots as if they, the ones criticizing, are somehow not included. Yet, says the author, Brazilians have all given a free pass to high-level corruption and criminality. He cites as an example the much-loved politician who is known to have embezzled millions of reais and yet is still widely admired as someone who "gets things done". Likewise, everyone knows how much money is being misused and misdirected under cover of Brazil's World Cup preparations, or lack thereof. In conclusion, he asserts, "we are all accomplices to a crime" and we are all living with a fundamental dishonesty.

If only his powerful words could be translated into action. In recent days we've had marches in favour of drug liberalization, saving the rainforest and, today, gay rights. As I intimated the other day, all three should be relegated in importance far below the as yet non-existent marches demanding an end to rampant crime and corruption.

However, I write these words from my new cocooned accommodation, with security way in excess of the requirements for a "normal" middle-class life. But as each day goes by this becomes my new normal. How long before I too am lulled into my own brand of Brazilian complacency / dishonesty and no longer care about the street outside my door ? As long as in my happy bubble I can "get things done".