Brazil and the Institutional Consequences of Its Democracy

Brazil is geographically a paradise. However, for those who do not have substantial financial resources, daily life often means confronting the harsh reality of public services – particularly in areas such as healthca

The situation in many public hospitals is alarming. And this is not simply the result of a lack of money. Brazil is a country where the elites of the three branches of government are among the highest paid in the world – an unfortunate “standard” that contrasts sharply with the quality of services delivered to the population

During the COP30 Belém, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz reportedly asked journalists on his return flight to Germany: “Who would like to live there?” His comment was widely criticized.

As a Brazilian, I love my country – its culture, its people, and its natural beauty. But I also feel ashamed when confronted with this reality. In this sense, Merz’s remark reflects a difficult truth.

Brazil’s natural wealth is undeniable. Yet the standards created and maintained by political and institutional elites often fail the population. Keeping these realities hidden from the world is not an act of patriotism – it is a disservice to the Brazilian people.

A nation deserves respect not only for its natural beauty, but for the dignity and quality of life it offers its citizens. When public resources are mismanaged, when scandals persist, and when ethical standards in governance remain low, it becomes difficult to demand respect even from the international community.

True respect must be built on responsibility, transparency, and a genuine commitment to the public good. My appeal is directed to the high authorities of the three branches of government in other democracies: reflect on the reality faced by most Brazilians and on how they are treated by your counterparts in Brazil. Use your influence to encourage higher standards of accountability, fairness, and respect for citizens – because the credibility of democracy depends on how it serves its people.

Comparisons with countries such as China are often controversial, yet they highlight an uncomfortable question: what matters more in practice – the formal structure of a political system, or the tangible outcomes it delivers to the population? When democratic institutions fail to provide dignity, efficiency, and basic public services, they risk losing not only legitimacy at home but also respect abroad.