Brazil Militarizes Borders Ahead of Cup

Brazil is preparing security for a series of events that, if smoothly run, will raise the country’s profile around the globe: the FIFA Confederations Cup 2013 in mid-June; the July visit by Pope Francis for World Youth Day; the 2014 FIFA World Cup; and the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. Brazil’s borders are five times longer than the US-Mexico border, reports Lucy Jordan for the Rio Times, and challenging to secure: More than half runs through dense rainforest, and Brazil borders 10 countries, three of which are the world’s largest drug producers. The security mission will focus on prevention of cross-border crimes like drug and weapons trafficking, smuggling, illegal immigration, and illegal mining. Besides manpower and firepower to lock down borders, Brazil is turning to new technology including US-made remote-controlled robots, similar to those used in Afghanistan; Israeli-made drones; face-recognition cameras; and German anti-aircraft tanks. Security is essential for countries that seek a global edge in tourism, sports and trade. – YaleGlobal