In a bid to boost his chances of winning, President Lula has been making populist promises to the electorate. These include legislation aimed at reducing working hours without affecting pay. This proposal was surprisingly approved by Congress just 10 days before the runoff, with even Bolsonaro endorsing it late in the campaign.

This move is expected to have far-reaching implications for Brazil's economy if implemented. Many business leaders are warning that cutting working hours without corresponding productivity gains could lead to increased labor costs and fuel inflation. Small businesses may also suffer as a result of this new legislation.

The potential consequences of these changes are not limited to the economic sphere alone. A defeat for President Lula in the runoff would have significant implications for the region, allowing Bolsonaro's right-wing agenda to gain momentum once more. This could potentially lead to an increase in Trump's influence in Brazil and a return to power for the Bolsonaro family.

The outcome of this election is now hanging precariously in the balance as Lula battles to close the gap with Bolsonaro ahead of Sunday's runoff vote.

The Brazilian government has unveiled a series of initiatives aimed at bolstering support for President Lula ahead of Sunday's runoff vote against incumbent Jair Bolsonaro. The measures are part of an effort to woo voters and close the gap in the polls.

A significant increase in payments under Brazil's main welfare program, Bolsa Família, has taken effect this week. This move is expected to benefit nearly 50 million people, with Lula's government estimating that it will cost taxpayers 5.8 billion reais ($1.2 billion) for the rest of the year.

Lula's administration has also announced credit relief and tax incentives for small businesses. This program will provide low-interest government loans through public banks, allowing entrepreneurs to renegotiate some of their debt. The estimated cost of this initiative over the next three years is 3 billion reais ($600 million).

In another move, Lula introduced a national debt refinancing program aimed at clearing default records for millions of low-income Brazilians. Critics argue that this short-term relief measure fails to address underlying issues in financial literacy among these individuals.

The government has also taken steps to curb fuel costs by eliminating federal taxes on the import and sale of gasoline for 30 days, with the option for further extensions. This move is expected to cost taxpayers an estimated 5.2 billion reais ($1 billion), according to Brazil's government.

Brazil's President-elect Lula has unveiled a series of proposals aimed at winning over voters in the upcoming runoff election against incumbent Jair Bolsonaro. These measures include sending to Congress a bill that would establish zero-fare public transportation on weekends.

The cost of implementing such an initiative is estimated to range from 5 billion to 16 billion reais, depending on the chosen model, according to experts. This significant investment underscores the government's commitment to addressing pressing social issues and winning over voters. The outcome of this election will determine Brazil's future trajectory.

ABC News International: https://abcnews.com/International/wireStory/brazils-lula-opens-state-toolbox-woo-voters-runoff-137510328

Supporters of Lula have taken to the streets, protesting outside Meta's Dublin headquarters and voicing their concerns about unfair treatment by social media giants. They claim that Meta is favoring Bolsonaro by restricting access to advertising accounts and suppressing posts from Lula's campaign.

Brazil's electoral prosecutors are also investigating these claims, stating that Meta failed to comply fully with court orders aimed at ensuring equal treatment of both candidates. This has raised concerns about the integrity of the election process.

United Nations human rights experts have weighed in on the issue, expressing concern over possible unequal treatment of the two campaigns by social media platforms. They are closely monitoring the situation and its potential impact on the election's outcome.

The use of Meta AI tools, such as WhatsApp chatbots, has been a focal point of contention, with images circulating online showing the platform refusing to generate campaign posters for Lula while instantly producing an image for "Flávio".

Brazil's presidential election has been marred by allegations of bias in Meta AI tools, which have been accused of favoring incumbent President Jair Bolsonaro over his challenger, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.

Screenshots submitted to the electoral court by Lula's campaign appear to show Meta AI assigning Bolsonaro's electoral number, 22, to generic, fictional politicians. The same tool is also alleged to have translated a derogatory phrase about Bolsonaro into a compliment, further fueling concerns of bias.

David Nemer at the University of Virginia notes that determining whether these discrepancies are deliberate or not is impossible due to the opacity of Meta's systems. This lack of transparency has raised suspicions among Lula's supporters and experts alike.

The comeback of Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva in the polls has been attributed partly to his Army, an intensive online campaign that engages 8 million WhatsApp channel subscribers with daily tasks such as posting photographs on Instagram with a specific gesture. This effort appears to be paying off, with polls showing a narrowing gap between Lula and Bolsonaro.

The use of large language models in this election has been unprecedented, and experts say Brazil's experience offers a glimpse into the future of AI in politics. Fact-checking organisation Lupa identified 920 pieces of AI-generated or manipulated content ahead of the first round, mostly on Facebook and Instagram, with over half of it unlabelled.

The Brazilian presidential election has been marred by allegations of bias in Meta's AI tools, which have failed to prevent the spread of manipulated content.

Meta's independent oversight board has criticized the company's election safeguards, describing them as ineffective. Nemer, an expert on the matter, says it is a worrying development that highlights the need for better regulation of AI in politics.

The use of large language models (LLMs) in campaigning has raised concerns about their potential to spread misinformation and manipulate public opinion. A study by InternetLab found that eight major AI chatbots often refused to answer genuine questions about candidates, instead directing users to official electoral websites.

New Scientist: https://www.newscientist.com/article/2595540-brazil-presidential-election-dogged-by-alleged-bias-by-meta-ai-tools/?utm_campaign=RSS|NSNS&utm_content=home&utm_medium=RSS&utm_source=NSNS

The grounds for this request are serious allegations of interference by US tech giant Meta. According to Lula's campaign, Meta's algorithms have been manipulating social media content to suppress Lula's campaign messages and boost those of his opponent. This claim is central to their petition, which will be presented on Tuesday.

Flavio Bolsonaro has been a formidable contender throughout the election process, having secured 47 percent of the vote in the first round earlier this month. His father, Jair Bolsonaro, the former president, was a key figure in his campaign.

The allegations against Meta have led Lula's campaign to submit a petition to Brazil's top electoral court, arguing that the social media giant is interfering in the election through alleged "algorithmic manipulation".

This claim stems from information first revealed by Brazilian newspaper Folha de S. Paulo on Monday, which suggested that Meta may be intentionally suppressing Lula's online content and boosting Bolsonaro's.

The Superior Electoral Court has given Meta 24 hours to prove it is complying with an order to treat both campaigns equally, warning of a daily fine of approximately $200,000 if the company fails to do so.

A meeting between Meta and lawyers from both campaigns is scheduled for Tuesday at the Superior Electoral Court, where the social media giant will be expected to address these concerns.

Dozens of supporters of Brazilian presidential candidate Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva gathered outside Meta's offices in São Paulo on Monday, holding placards and chanting slogans that criticized the social media giant's alleged interference in the election.

Lula has accused not only Meta but also the US government of attempting to influence the outcome of the vote in favor of his opponent, Flávio Bolsonaro. This claim comes as no surprise, given the close ties between Flávio and his father, Jair Bolsonaro, who is currently serving a 27-year prison sentence under house arrest for his role in a failed coup attempt after Lula's victory in 2022.

The runoff election will determine whether Brazil remains a left-wing stronghold in Latin America or shifts towards the right, potentially becoming another country aligned with US President Donald Trump. The first-round results have energized the left, prompting massive rallies and a renewed focus on social media by Lula's campaign, which is now seeking to address concerns about Meta's alleged bias.

France 24 English: https://www.france24.com/en/americas/20261020-lula-campaign-seeks-disqualify-bolsonoro-from-brazil-presidential-vote-over-meta-interference

Recent polls have shown some variation in results, but most surveys agree on one thing: this election is going to be extremely close. According to the PoderData institute, both candidates are now neck and neck, with each commanding 50% of voter support.

Lula's previous victory over Bolsonaro's father, Jair Messias Bolsonaro, in the 2022 election serves as a reminder that the outcome of this runoff is far from certain. In that contest, Lula secured just 50.9% of the vote, leaving many to wonder whether history will repeat itself.

The first round of voting on October 4 saw Bolsonaro emerge victorious with 47% of the vote, but his lead was not as substantial as expected given his father's previous performance in similar elections.

Brazil's election campaign has taken an unexpected turn as Jair Bolsonaro's team attempts to regain momentum ahead of the runoff vote.

The president's decision to scale back street campaigning in light of his strong poll numbers earlier this month appears to have been a strategic mistake. Now, he is once again mobilizing supporters for major rallies across Brazil as the country prepares for the next round of voting.

Bolsonaro's campaign has been marked by intense polarization, a trend that has dominated Brazilian politics over the past decade. This phenomenon has led to the disappearance of centrist parties and any potential "third way" in politics.

The divide between Bolsonarism and Lula's left-wing camp is so deep-seated that it has paralyzed the country's political landscape, according to Marco Aurelio Nogueira, a political scientist who attributes this polarization to social media. Platforms' algorithms, he notes, tend to thrive on conflict and reward sensational content over balanced reporting.

Flavio Bolsonaro's calm demeanor may be a key factor in his chances of defeating Lula in the runoff vote.

In contrast to his father Jair Bolsonaro, who was known for his aggressive rhetoric, Flavio Bolsonaro presents himself as more moderate and gives Bolsonarism a fresh image. His communication skills are also noteworthy, with well-produced videos that address workers' concerns such as the introduction of the five-day workweek.

Lula's recent promise to shorten workweek hours has given momentum to his campaign, but it's not clear if this will be enough to secure him the win. Bolsonaro seems to have taken note of Lula's rising poll numbers and is now taking a less radical stance on several issues, including fiscal policy.

Bolsonaro had previously announced drastic budget cuts modeled on the policies of his ally Javier Milei, but he has since voted in favor of continuing Lula's social programs. However, he still needs to present a plan for reducing Brazil's high public debt.

The influence-peddling scandal surrounding businessman Roberto Fechio Vorcaro has cast a shadow over both Lula's and Bolsonaro's campaigns. Vorcaro is accused of bribing politicians, judges, and financial decision-makers with millions in reported payouts and lavish sex parties.

Flavio Bolsonaro, son of the incumbent president, is implicated in the scandal for accepting goods and services from Vorcaro, including a €10 million donation to fund a film about his father's life. This has sparked allegations of impropriety, but Lula's own son is also embroiled in another corruption scandal.

Political analysts have noted that both candidates' attempts to outdo each other on the corruption front have left voters disillusioned and skeptical of all accusations. The constant stream of scandals and counter-accusations has created a sense of fatigue among voters, who are increasingly tuning out these claims.

According to Nogueira, this mudslinging has essentially neutralized the impact of these allegations in the election campaign. As he points out, voters no longer pay much attention to these accusations when making their voting decisions.

The two candidates, Lula and Flavio Bolsonaro, are gearing up for their second live television debate on Friday, just two days before the runoff election scheduled for October 25. This debate is expected to have a significant impact on voter decisions.

Experts agree that both candidates will need to remain composed under pressure from the other side, as provocative comments and personal attacks are likely to be exchanged during the debate. In contrast, specific policy proposals are expected to play only a minor role in the discussion.

DW English: https://www.dw.com/en/brazil-s-lula-flavio-bolsonaro-tied-ahead-of-runoff-vote/a-79715182?maca=en-rss-en-world-4025-rdf

The Amazon rainforest holds enormous amounts of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere due to fossil fuel burning and helps mitigate the effects of climate change. However, it has faced widespread deforestation over the years, with the situation becoming even more dire during Jair Bolsonaro's presidency from 2019 until 2023.

Environmental protection agencies were significantly weakened under Bolsonaro's rule, leading to a sharp increase in forest clearance. The consequences of this have been alarming, with many experts warning that the Amazon is approaching a tipping point beyond which it may not be able to recover.

Flávio Bolsonaro, son of Jair Bolsonaro, has emerged as a strong contender in the current election, sparking concerns among environmentalists who fear his presidency could lead to further devastation.

"It's going to be a second coming of Bolsonaro, therefore a more radical Bolsonaro," warned Claudio Angelo, international policy coordinator at Climate Observatory, highlighting the gravity of the situation.

The Brazilian government's environmental record has been a major concern during Jair Bolsonaro's tenure, and his successor Flávio Bolsonaro is expected to continue this trend.

Under Bolsonaro's four-year term, an estimated 45,586 square kilometers of the Amazon rainforest was destroyed, an area roughly the size of Denmark. This alarming rate of deforestation has raised concerns about the long-term health of the forest ecosystem.

However, Lula's government took a different approach to addressing environmental issues in Brazil. When he took office, he pledged to protect the Amazon and its inhabitants by calling for an end to deforestation by 2030.

Lula also increased monitoring of the forest and strengthened Brazil's environmental enforcement agency IBAMA, leading to a significant decrease in deforestation. In fact, 2026 is on track to be the lowest level of deforestation in over a decade, representing a 41% drop compared to Bolsonaro's tenure.

Experts have expressed concerns that Flávio Bolsonaro's record on forest protection will be similar to his father's, particularly given his involvement with draft legislation that could allow landowners to use their properties as they please.

Brazil's upcoming elections have far-reaching implications for the environment, particularly when it comes to forest protection.

The country's current president has implemented measures to reduce deforestation, but environmental experts warn that these efforts may be reversed if Bolsonaro wins the election.

Critics argue that Bolsonaro's pledge to end illegal deforestation by 2029 is misleading, as he plans to achieve this goal through legislative changes rather than enforcing existing laws.

This approach has raised concerns among experts who fear that it could lead to a significant increase in deforestation, and undermine Brazil's efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The country's stance on climate change has become increasingly politicized, with some politicians portraying it as an issue that hinders economic growth rather than a pressing global concern.

Brazil is likely to abandon its position as a climate leader if Bolsonaro wins the election, following his comments on extreme weather events being cyclical and not solely linked to human influence.

However, even if Lula emerges victorious, experts caution that it may not be a straightforward victory for the environment, given the current administration's plans to expand oil production.

The expansion of oil production is seen as contradictory to Brazil's efforts to reduce deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions, raising questions about the country's commitment to environmental protection.

The decision to allow exploratory drilling in the Amazon rainforest has sparked criticism from environmentalists who see it as contradictory to Brazil's efforts to reduce deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions.

Critics argue that this move undermines President Lula's commitment to climate action, despite his overall record on the issue being seen as impressive. The expansion of oil production is a contentious issue in Brazil, with many questioning whether it aligns with the country's environmental goals.

The upcoming runoff election between President Lula and Bolsonaro on October 25 has raised concerns about the fate of the Amazon and global efforts to curb climate change. However, for many Brazilians, access to basic services like education, sanitation, and healthcare takes precedence over environmental concerns.

Ultimately, voters may prioritize development projects that benefit their communities, even if they come at the cost of some environmental degradation.

DW English: https://www.dw.com/en/brazil-s-elections-matter-for-the-planet-this-is-why/a-79659928?maca=en-rss-en-world-4025-rdf

The measure passed with an overwhelming majority, securing 75 votes in favor and only one vote against. The lone dissenter was former Vice President Hamilton Mourao, who served under Jair Bolsonaro's presidency. The opposition from his camp has been notable, as it marks a shift in stance on the issue.

Flávio Bolsonaro, the presidential candidate of the incumbent president's son and current Senator, initially opposed the shorter workweek but reversed his position ahead of the vote. His decision to switch sides was seen as a strategic move to prevent himself from being perceived as out of touch with public opinion in his neck-and-neck battle against Lula.

The approval of the amendment came after two rounds of voting in the Senate, with supporters arguing that it would benefit millions of Brazilian workers without putting an undue burden on businesses. The legislation allows companies 14 months to implement the changes, which was a compromise reached during negotiations between lawmakers and business leaders.

The new rules will establish a maximum weekly work limit of 40 hours, accompanied by two rest days, without any reduction in pay for employees. According to government estimates, over 37 million workers stand to benefit from this measure once it is implemented.

The Brazilian Senate has made history by approving a shorter workweek, a significant victory for President Lula ahead of the upcoming runoff election.

This landmark decision is expected to benefit millions of workers across the country, who will now have more time to devote to their families and personal well-being. In his statement, President Lula hailed the achievement as a major milestone in his efforts to improve the lives of Brazilian citizens. He emphasized that those who work tirelessly to build the nation also deserve to enjoy a better quality of life.

The Senate's decision has been met with jubilation from supporters of President Lula, while those backing incumbent Bolsonaro have expressed concerns about the potential impact on business operations and the economy. According to recent polls, however, there is widespread support for the measure among the general public, despite opposition from some business owners.

The timing of the vote has been seen as a strategic move by President Alcolumbre, who timed it to take place between the first and second rounds of the election. This decision is likely to benefit President Lula's chances in the runoff, as it demonstrates his commitment to addressing the needs of Brazilian workers.

In recent days, President Lula has taken several steps to shore up support ahead of the election, including introducing new fuel tax cuts and extending existing subsidies. Additionally, he has pledged to pardon debts owed by small businesses to the federal government and announced measures to boost welfare payments for university students.

The shortened workweek has been hailed as a key achievement for President Lula's administration, marking the culmination of his efforts to reform the country's labor laws.

In a surprising reversal, outgoing President Bolsonaro announced his support for the reduced workweek measure on Tuesday, despite having previously advocated for a more flexible payment-by-the-hour system and expressing concerns that it was an election-motivated initiative. His change of heart has been met with skepticism by some observers who recall his long-standing opposition to the measure.

Bolsonaro's about-face has not gone unnoticed, particularly among business leaders, who were reminded on Wednesday that the new Congress could potentially revisit the issue after February, when Bolsonaro's party is expected to gain a majority. This development has raised questions about the stability of the reduced workweek policy and its long-term prospects.

The approval of the shorter workweek has been a rallying cry for Lula supporters, who have taken to the streets in cities across Brazil, including Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo, to celebrate the Senate's vote on Wednesday. Protesters, such as Lunna Normande, 23, have expressed their determination to continue pushing for further reforms until the current workweek is deemed acceptable.

The new legislation in Brazil will not impact workers operating in the informal economy, including freelancers and delivery drivers.

This reform is part of a broader trend unfolding across Latin America, where neighboring countries are adopting shorter workweeks. In Chile, for instance, the 40-Hour Law was passed last year, reducing the standard workweek to 40 hours without affecting pay. Similarly, Colombia has implemented a 42-hour workweek.

Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum recently proposed trimming its 48-hour workweek, with the goal of reaching a 40-hour workweek by 2030. Meanwhile, Argentina appears to be bucking this trend under President Javier Milei, who may opt to maintain its current 48-hour workweek schedule.

ABC News International: https://abcnews.com/International/wireStory/brazils-senate-approves-shorter-workweek-major-win-lula-137275357