In an echo of the country's darkest hours, the government has set to work implementing a manifesto supported by three of Brazil's most powerful lobbies: the church, agro-business and the weapons industry. The result is the liberalisation of the Brazilian economy, the criminalisation of racial, social and sexual minorities, mass deforestation, a cultural revolution, and attacks against democracy.

Refusing to succumb to fatalism, the opposition continues to make its voice heard, to unite and to mobilise international support. Look no further than the Carnaval celebrations in February, which became one prolonged political demonstration. But the question remains: can these protests join forces and become one sustainable movement capable of defending the rule of law and limiting any irreversible damage?

With Manuela d'Avila (journalist) and Marcia Tiburi (Philosopher)