Brazil is an emerging center of global influence.  It is the world's 7th largest economy and the largest country by population and area on the South American continent.  In recent years, Brazil cut poverty in half and has achieved universal primary education coverage.  In addition, hosting this year's World Cup and the upcoming 2016 Olympics has further accelerated the country's rise on the world stage.

Notwithstanding these significant achievements, 2013 saw some 1.2 million Brazilians protesting the government’s failure to provide quality education, health, and transportation, despite investing heavily in the World Cup. Income inequality remains, with the top 10% of Brazilians making 46% of all income, more than the combined incomes of the bottom 80% of citizens.

Widespread violence undermines citizen security and droughts are crippling both Brazil’s hydro-fueled energy sector and driving up the global price of coffee, roughly a third of which comes from Brazil.

Brazil Rising is part of an on-going monthly briefing series called Latin America on the Rise, which brings in a diversity of speakers to address emerging and emergent issues in the Western Hemisphere. If you have any questions, please contact Caitie Whelan (caitie.whelan@mail.house.gov) in the office of Congressman Sam Farr.

PLEASE NOTE: THIS CONGRESSIONAL HEARING WILL TAKE PLACE AT THE CONGRESSIONAL MEETING ROOM NORTH IN THE CAPITOL VISITORS' CENTER.