Why Brazilians Were So Quick to Protest Bus Fares

Recent protests in Brazil reflect not just opposition to higher bus fares but deep discontent with quality of life, according to Gallup. A December 2012 survey shows declines since 2010 in the proportion of citizens who are satisfied with four types of services: availability of quality health care in their communities, 25% (down 16 percentage points); local schools, 48% (down 9 points); local roads, 44% (down 9 points); and public transportation, 48% (down 8 points). Moreover, 70% believe corruption is widespread (up 9 points), and only 36% feel safe walking alone at night (down 12 points).