Why I Don't Like the Current Brazilian President Bolsonaro: A Personal Reflection

As someone who shares Christian values and has a deep love for my country, Brazil, my sentiments towards the current Brazilian President, Jair Bolsonaro, are highly divided. While there are certain aspects of his presidency that resonate with my personal ethos, particularly his strong stance on law and order, I find myself profoundly dissatisfied with his approach to governance, especially with regards to environmental concerns.

History and Background

Bolsonaro's rise to power was somewhat unexpected, given his background as a member of the military. He campaigned on a platform of law and order, strict law enforcement, and a hard stance against corruption. His supporters appreciated his no-nonsense approach and his penchant for making bold promises. Despite his branding as a Christian politician, it's clear that his environmental policies are less influenced by personal convictions than they are by economic interests.

Disagreements on Environmental Policies

One of the primary reasons I find Bolsonaro's presidency concerning is his approach to environmental conservation. As a person who values the natural world and recognizes its importance for both current and future generations, I am deeply troubled by his policies that prioritize economic growth over environmental protection.

Bolsonaro's stance on deforestation and environmental protection is particularly problematic. In 2019, his administration loosened environmental regulations, leading to a significant increase in deforestation in the Amazon. This has sent shockwaves through the international community, with many environmental activists and organizations raising alarms about the potential catastrophic consequences of these actions. In contrast, I support the preservation of our natural resources for their intrinsic value to the environment, indigenous communities, and biodiversity.

Military Background and Policies

While Bolsonaro's military background might have been reassuring to some, it has raised concerns among others, especially in the context of environmental policies. His administration has been more focused on economic development and growth rather than preserving the environment. The military's role in governance and the potential for a lack of empathy towards natural conservation are key factors in my dissatisfaction with his presidency.

During his time in power, Bolsonaro has made several decisions that undermine the protection of the environment, citing economic growth as a primary reason. Critics argue that this short-sighted approach not only risks the ecological integrity of Brazil but also fails to address the long-term consequences of environmental degradation. It is a stark contrast to the values of sustainability and the responsible use of natural resources that align with many Christian principles and environmental ethics.

Personal Values and Concerns

From a personal standpoint, my faith and values significantly influence my perspective on environmental issues. As a Christian, I believe in the importance of stewardship and responsibility towards our environment. The concept of treading lightly on the earth and ensuring that we leave a sustainable world for future generations is a core tenet of my faith and is something I strive to uphold in my life.

However, President Bolsonaro's policies send a message that economic interests take precedence over environmental concerns. This is a challenging position for me, as I believe that environmental protection is not just about current economic priorities but about long-term sustainability and the well-being of all living beings. My concerns are rooted in the belief that protecting the environment is a moral and ethical responsibility, deserving of priority in policy-making.

Conclusion

An ideal leader for any nation should prioritize the well-being of the environment and the protection of natural resources. In my view, President Bolsonaro falls short on this crucial aspect of governance. While I respect his efforts to combat crime and corruption, his approach to environmental issues leaves a lot to be desired. It is vital that future leaders consider the long-term impact of their policies on the environment and the broader community.

The fight for environmental conservation is not just an issue of personal preference but a matter of global responsibility. As global citizens, we must recognize the interconnectedness of our actions and their impact on the planet. For these reasons, I find myself continually disillusioned with the current presidency of Brazil under Jair Bolsonaro, and I hope that future leaders can find a balance between economic growth and environmental protection.

Keywords: Bolsonaro, Brazilian President, Environmental Issues