Brazil proves to be a very unique country within Latin America. It is made up of more than three million square miles. The federated republic today has a bicameral National Congress with a Federal Senate and Chamber of Deputies (p. 344). The latter’s 513 members are elected by proportional representation and serve four-year terms. The judiciary consists of the Supreme Federal Tribunal with 11 members appointed by the president for life and confirmed by vote of the Senate. Brazil has formal relationship with many intentional organizations including the United Nations, World Trade Organization, and World Bank (p.344). The Brazilian presidential election in October of 2002 was a milestone for Brazil. The first man from a poor family was elected.
Brazil shows greatness in both social contrasts and geographical size. First-World living conditions are seen in upper-class neighborhoods, where right across the street are massive electronically operated skyscrapers that people in with sometimes not even the most basic of services (p. 346). About 47% of the people consider themselves to be “white” and only 7% consider themselves to be “black”. You will see a spectrum of skin colors in Brazil. 50% of its total population is under 20 years of age giving Brazil a cutting edge note of a “young” and diversified country. Segregation found in Brazil is going to be more classed based then race based (p. 346).
“Brazil is rich in both natural and human resources” (p. 347). Doing business in Brazil can be challenging however. Economic uncertainties involving inflation, currency exchange, and interest rates are a huge factor. The diverse economy produces everything from automobiles and airplanes to shoes and orange juice (p. 347). High-tech and service industries are rapidly growing in Brazil. Understanding this culture better is the best way to avoid committing blunders that could potentially lead to negative results in business type situations.
Moran, R. Abramson, N. Moran, S. (2014) Managing Cultural Differences 9th edition. Routledge Publishing New York, NY.
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