Brazil’s Military to Reinforce Security During G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro
As the world gears up for the upcoming G20 summit scheduled for November 18-19, 2024, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, security measures are being ramped up to ensure the safety of leaders and delegates attending the high-profile event. The Brazilian armed forces will play a crucial role in reinforcing security, as announced by Victor Santos, the state’s secretary for security.
The Role of the Military in Ensuring Safety
Under Brazilian law, the president has the authority to deploy military forces temporarily to specific regions to assist local police when the usual security measures are deemed insufficient. This provision, known as the Guarantee of Law and Order (GLO), has been invoked in the past during significant global events hosted by Brazil, including the 2014 FIFA World Cup, the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics, and the 2012 United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development, commonly referred to as Rio+20.
Santos emphasized the necessity of this measure, stating, "The host country is responsible for ensuring the safety of those who come." This statement underscores Brazil’s commitment to providing a secure environment for the leaders of the world’s largest economies, including U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping, both of whom have confirmed their attendance.
Recent Security Challenges in Rio de Janeiro
The decision to deploy military forces comes in the wake of escalating violence in Rio de Janeiro. In recent weeks, the city has witnessed a series of alarming incidents, including hijackers using city buses to block streets and impede police access after releasing passengers. These events have raised concerns about public safety and the ability of local law enforcement to manage security during the summit.
Santos clarified that the military deployment would be concentrated in the city of Rio de Janeiro rather than extending across the entire state. This targeted approach aims to address specific security challenges while maintaining a visible presence to deter potential threats.
Historical Context of Security Measures
Brazil’s use of military forces for security during major events is not unprecedented. The GLO has been a vital tool for the government in managing public safety during large gatherings, particularly in a city like Rio de Janeiro, which has a complex security landscape. The historical context of these measures highlights the Brazilian government’s proactive stance in ensuring that international events proceed without incident.
The G20 summit is expected to attract significant media attention and a large number of international delegates, making robust security measures essential. The Brazilian government is keenly aware of its responsibility to protect not only its guests but also its citizens during this high-stakes event.
Conclusion
As Brazil prepares to host the G20 summit in November, the deployment of military forces to bolster security in Rio de Janeiro reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring a safe environment for world leaders. With recent incidents of violence raising concerns, the Guarantee of Law and Order provision will play a critical role in maintaining public safety. As the world watches, Brazil aims to showcase its ability to host such a significant event while prioritizing the security of all participants.