These horrific attacks are a reflection of a broad range of societal problems within Brazil that have been catalyzed by a surge in radical ideas and extremist discourse on the internet. These mass attacks on schools are leaving long-term scars on both children and parents; it's time that the perpetrators and the social networks that embolden them are held to account and that disarmament, mental health support, and a firm response to hate speech are adopted.
Brazil has experienced yet another monstrous school attack as hatred, anxiety, and loneliness — fueled by the COVID pandemic — run rampant in the nation. The need for decisive action cannot be overstated, however, implementing authoritarian measures isn't the answer. There needs to be a concerted effort to tackle the underlying social problems at the core of the growing violence, and the first step is through encouraging dialogue.