Brazil.

The article provides an overview of the political, economic and social conditions in Brazil and an assessment of the political rights and civil liberties in the country from 1997 to 1998. The 1994 elections were relatively free, but there were irregularities in northeastern states and in Rio de Janeiro. The constitution guarantees freedom of religion and expression and the right to organize political and civic organizations. Brazil's police are among the world's most violent and corrupt. The climate of lawlessness is reinforced by a weak judiciary.