Security for Global Politicians

The killing of British MP Sir David Amess has highlighted the dilemma facing politicians worldwide.

How can you be an open, accessible people's representative and yet still protect your personal safety?

We asked our correspondents around the world to tells us how lawmakers cope where they are.

Brazil
By Katy Watson. BBC South America correspondent

IMAGE SOURCE,EPAImage caption,Jair Bolsonaro was stabbed during his presidential campaign in 2018


In such a vast country as Brazil, there are many different political realities.

In remote areas like the Amazon, expect to find little or no security for the average politician. That's not to say there aren't legitimate safety concerns - with powerful economic players vying for control, threats to politicians' security aren't uncommon. But rallies are community affairs, politicians are often a familiar face - and being part of the fabric is crucial.

Down south in big cities like São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro you're more likely to see politicians flanked by bodyguards and large entourages. Wealth here is extreme - and so are the inequalities. Richer politicians, like those in the corporate world, protect themselves.

Brazil is deeply divided politically and that has become clearer during Jair Bolsonaro's leadership. He was stabbed during his presidential campaign and has used this as a justification to liberalise gun laws.  TO READ MORE ABOUT THIS, CLICK HERE...