Love conquered hate.
"The side that defends democracy, that feels the pain of the other, and that knows and respects the struggle for rights, won," writes former minister Alexandre Padilha.
Last Sunday (30) Brazilians went to the polls in the most important election in history since our redemocratization. A lot was at stake there: Brazil continuing in obscurantism, in isolation from the rest of the world and with the spread of hatred or, finally, returning to prioritize life and science, being a reference in internationally recognized public policies and having hope in love. Democracy won.
The victorious side was that of love, which triumphed over hatred and fear. The side that defends democracy, that feels the pain of others, and that understands and respects the struggle for rights—this essential achievement of the people that must never be weakened again—won. The side that knows the importance of respecting democratic institutions and making the country function won.
President Lula's victory signifies the regaining of hope for the Brazilian people. Countries around the world have already signaled that they will reinvest in Brazil starting in 2023. Regaining recognition from international investment, an optimistic market outlook, and a weak dollar – these are some of the main indicators of a country's correct leadership.
According to a Datafolha survey, the economy and health are the areas that most concern the Brazilian people. Starting January 1st, the minimum wage will once again be adjusted above inflation, and the Bolsa Família program will increase to R$ 600.
For healthcare, there will be no budget cuts in 2023. The cuts in investments made by the Bolsonaro government in the Farmácia Popular program, in Indigenous Health, and in the HIV/AIDS prevention program to fill the secret budget of his allies in Congress will no longer exist.
Lula's third government will do what it has already done and will do it even better: give dignity to the people. It will put workers in the budget. It will prioritize well-being. It will ensure that spending on public health is an investment and not a commodity. It will make Brazil once again be viewed with respect by other countries in the world. It will put climate protection at the center of the debate. It will govern for everyone.
* This is an opinion article, the responsibility of the author, and does not reflect the opinion of Brasil 247.
