A New Age of Protests

Turkey and Brazil are pointed to as economic models for developing nations. However, massive protests – and two contrasting responses – may tarnish their image. In Istanbul, a police crackdown contributed to a small protest over plans to destroy a park exploding in size and intensity, prompting questions if the Erdogan goals are security or authoritarian control. In Brazil, the largest protests in 20 years started over a small increase in bus fares, and President Dilma Rousseff is described as taking a more conciliatory approach than her Turkish counterpart. Artistic or poignant expressions of protest from individuals capture instant global attention. In an era of great connectivity, governments seek the global spotlight, but individuals do, too. Diverting global attention from internal turmoil is a challenge. Frida Ghitis concludes for CNN, “New technology may make it easier for governments to learn what the people are thinking, but it makes it harder for them to shape what the people believe.” – YaleGlobal