Rio

Some 1.4 million people live in Rio de Janeiro’s favelas, the run-down, ill-equipped neighborhoods that have become known for crime and poor living conditions. But the government is moving to improve conditions in those favelas and, so far at least, there are signs of success.

Brazil’s been hit with protests recently, and police are prepared for that. But when the World Cup and Olympics come to town, the problem won’t be street protests, but rather the possibility of terrorism. Brazilian security forces are gearing up, so they’re ready.

Portugal’s former colony, Brazil has a booming, growing economy. By comparison, Portugal’s economy is moribund. As the highly educated younger generations struggle to find work, many are leaving and heading to Brazil. In Brazil, the need to prepare for upcoming international events and the growing economy provide many opportunities.

Brazilian authorizes might feel a bit bewildered about all of the protests there. After all, conditions for Brazil’s poor have improved over the past decade. The World’s Jason Margolis has the story.

As Brazil gets ready to host the Olympics and World Cup, the country won’t just be dealing with threats from civil unrest. There’s also the threat of terrorism. The World’s Jason Margolis has more on that angle from Rio de Janeiro.