The mega-event city as neo-liberal laboratory: the case of Rio de Janeiro (original) (raw)

Abstract

As Brazil’s economic and political structures have stabilized over the past quarter century, the country has assumed an increasingly important role in global affairs. The dominant trends towards neo-liberalism in the global political-economy are being reproduced within the context of a state structure that has traditionally occupied a central role in the national economy. While transitions to neo-liberalism at the national scale occur more slowly it is argued that it is within urban contexts that coalitions of political and economic interests can most quickly transform space and social relations. In this sense, sports mega-events function as mechanisms for the implementation of neo-liberal modes of governance within urban contexts. This paper will examine the processes through which mega-events in Rio de Janeiro are staging the city as an active laboratory for new models of neo-liberal governance that are accelerating the transformation of Brazilian society.

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What key factors led Rio de Janeiro to secure the 2016 Olympics?add

The committee attributed Rio's selection to high investment opportunities and public enthusiasm amid Brazil's economic growth. Notably, the budget for Rio 2016 surpassed all other candidate cities, totaling over R$29 billion.

How did Brazil's socio-political context shape the 2016 Olympic preparations?add

The political landscape allowed the Brazilian government to implement rapid urban transformations under a state of exception. Laws were crafted to provide FIFA and IOC exclusive rights and exemptions from traditional regulations.

What were the significant outcomes of the Pan American Games in Rio's Olympic bid?add

The 2007 Pan American Games revealed systemic inefficiencies, with costs exceeding R$3.3 billion and no lasting legacy projects completed. This experience informed subsequent Olympic preparations, showcasing both opportunities and pitfalls.

How were public relations firms involved in constructing the Olympic Imaginary?add

Firms like McKinsey & Company collaborated with local authorities to craft compelling narratives for the Olympics. The Rio 2016 Bid Book exemplified this, emphasizing investment potential while obscuring adverse urban realities.

What parallels exist between the Iraq War tactics and Olympic governance in Rio?add

Both used 'shock' tactics to justify emergency measures that established extraordinary governance frameworks. The urban interventions in Rio were framed similarly to military operations, prioritizing capital accumulation over democratic processes.

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