The World Cup brings about excitement, comradeship and pride for one’s country. In the midst of the excitement you might think you would do anything to be in Brazil for the 2014 World Cup. But the grass is not always greener on the other side.
Brazilians have engaged in a number of protests against the corruption of the World Cup. They are maddened that public money is being poured into this event when the country is in dire need of better roads, education, hospitals and sanitation.
On the day of kick-off, there were demonstrations in at least 10 Brazilian cities.
The “Our Cup is on the Street” protests target the high cost of the stadiums, police brutality and corruption.
“Everyone knows that the contractors, FIFA, the sponsors and some politicians will win a lot with the World Cup. The people are left out. That’s why our Cup will be on the street!” stated one of the organizers of the protest.
Other protesters held signs reading “F*** FIFA” and “FIFA Go Home”
Many Brazilians are even rooting for other teams as a mark of protest.
The controversy has not been limited to the streets. The sentiment of Brazilians has also reverberated to social media. #NaoVaiTerCopa (There won’t be a World Cup), #CopaPraQuem (World Cup for who) and #NaoWorldCup (No World Cup) have been used by Brazilians, and people in other parts of the world, to express their frustrations.
"World Cup Protest 8" by Ben Tavener, used under CC BY 2.0
As the World Cup continues, Brazilian protesters are likely to be met with increased police force.
When you find yourself watching the next game reflect for a moment on what implications the World Cup has for people in a different part of the world.
"World Cup Brazil: WAS IT NECESSARY TO KICK THAT BALL?" by Tjebbe van Tijen, used under CC BY-ND 2.0
