Armed forces will boost security in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil for the upcoming G20 summit, scheduled for November 18–19. Rio’s state secretary for security, Victor Santos, confirmed the move on Tuesday, underscoring the importance of protecting world leaders, including US President Joe Biden and China’s Xi Jinping, expected to attend the high-profile meeting.
Security Strengthened Under Brazil’s GLO Law
Under Brazilian law, the president can deploy the military to patrol areas temporarily when local police resources are insufficient. This action, known as the Guarantee of Law and Order (GLO), is not new; it has been used during major events like the 2014 World Cup, the 2016 Rio Olympics, and the 2012 Rio+20 summit. According to Santos, “This law will certainly be used,” as he emphasised Brazil’s duty to ensure the safety of visiting officials.
The deployment of the armed forces will focus specifically on the city of Rio de Janeiro rather than the broader state area, as clarified by Santos. However, neither Brazil’s presidential office nor the defence ministry has commented publicly on the specifics of the planned military presence.
Heightened Security Challenges in Rio de Janeiro
Rio has seen a rise in security challenges recently. In a series of violent incidents, groups of hijackers commandeered city buses to block streets, temporarily obstructing police while releasing passengers. These disturbances highlight the need for additional security support during the G20 summit, given the elevated risks in certain areas of the city.
Previous Use of Armed Forces for International Events
Brazil has a track record of deploying its armed forces to ensure the security of international events. The GLO strategy has proven effective in handling large crowds and enhancing police capabilities when needed. The upcoming G20 summit, however, presents unique challenges due to the attendance of world leaders and heightened security expectations, both nationally and internationally.
Key Details and Next Steps
Rio de Janeiro’s security preparations reflect Brazil’s commitment to hosting a safe and secure G20 summit. While further details on the exact security protocols are yet to be disclosed, the confirmed use of the GLO law marks a significant step in ensuring that the city remains secure for attendees and local residents alike.
