We’re covering Brazil’s decision to impose border controls amid coronavirus fears. How the crisis slashed Brazilians’ trust in the Jair Bolsonaro administration. And the possibility of 20-percent unemployment.
Brazil imposes border restrictions to several countries (but not the U.S.)
In two separate announcements, the Brazilian government shut down almost all its land borders—with the exception of Uruguay—and restricted the entry of people flying from Europe, Asia, and Australia for at least 30 days. The move aims at stopping infected individuals from arriving in the country. The restrictions do not apply to goods being transported across borders or arriving at airports, Brazilians currently abroad, or foreigners in the following cases:
- Immigrants with a previously issued residence permit;
- Members of international organizations on official missions;
- Foreign employees accredited by the Brazilian government;
- People attempting to reunite with a Brazilian family member;
- Anyone with a migrant identity card (RNM, formerly RNE);
- Foreigners whose entry is specifically authorized by the government for public interest reasons.
Why it matters. Experts have advised in favor of border shutdowns as a means to slow down the Covid-19 spread.
Yes, but … The Brazilian government seems to be taking measures gradually. First, it only closed the Venezuelan border....