Tackling Corruption in Post-War Ukraine, Brazil's Elections, and More

October 8, 2022

Former Brazilian President and presidential candidate Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva holds a Brazilian flag during a rally

Will Brazil's elections be a victory for democracy?

Earlier this week, Brazilians went to the polls to vote in a general election, with incumbent President Jair Bolsonaro facing off against former President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Valerie Wirtschafter explains why the first round was closer than predicted, how social media is affecting the discourse around the electoral process, and what may happen in round two.

Biden's cannabis pardons: A long overdue reassessment of the War on Drugs

On Thursday, President Biden announced a full pardon for individuals convicted of simple cannabis possession under federal law, encouraged governors to use their pardon powers to do the same, and asked the secretary of health and human services and the attorney general to review how marijuana is scheduled under federal law. This announcement "could mark the first significant step in dismantling our nation's disastrous and racist War on Drugs," John Hudak writes.

Investigative journalism is essential for Ukraine reconstruction and anti-corruption

"Rebuilding Ukraine is not just an opportunity to help the country recover from a devastating war but also opens a door for innovation in building anti-corruption mechanisms from the ground up," write Miranda Patrucic, Alexandra Gillies, Norman Eisen, and Lilly Blumenthal.

Upcoming events on the world economy

India's role in the world economy. What is on the horizon for one of the largest economies? On October 11, Brookings will welcome India's Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for a discussion on the country's current growth trajectory, economic challenges and reforms, and fiscal policy.

How democracies can shape the global economy. Amid rising geopolitical tensions, democratic nations have an opportunity to stand together to protect their economic interests, preserve peace and prosperity for their citizens, and enhance trade. Canada’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Chrystia Freeland will join us on October 11 to discuss a productive path forward.

Jump-starting Africa's economic recovery. The COVID-19 pandemic has slowed, and in many cases reversed, the socioeconomic gains of countries throughout sub-Saharan Africa. On October 14, Brookings will host policymakers from the region for a conversation on their priorities for economic recovery in a post-pandemic world.

The conclusions and recommendations of any Brookings publication are solely those of its author(s), and do not reflect the views of the Institution, its management, or its other scholars.

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