Violence against journalists in Brazil in the government of Jair Bolsonaro

Abstract

Introduction

This article shows how the current government of Jair Bolsonaro threatens the work of the press with attacks on journalists and media in Brazil that are critical of Bolsonaro’s political management.

Main goal

This work of analysis and reflection aims to make visible the mechanisms of violence exerted on journalists through virtual harassment, disinformation practices and a hate speech against the politically correct promoted by the president. That is a part of the process classified as post-truth.

Method

Based on the analysis of the speech of Bolsonaro and other political figures, as well as offensive publications on social networks and judicial investigations, this article proofs the political strategy to promote disinformation.

Results

To achieve this objective, both the president and his followers affirm that the majority of the press is their enemy and they encourage delegitimization of the press. This strategy, lead by Bolsonaro, is looking to promote unilateral and partial communication with the population, to the detriment of professional informational criteria. The Supreme Court is processing various accusations against the president and his government for acts of disinformation and threats against journalist.

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