Struggles for Rights in the Brazilian Urban Space and the SDGs in the Context of the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

This article examines the actions of urban socio-spatial and socio-territorial movements in Brazil during 2020 and 2021, in a context marked by the pandemic and political polarization under the government of Jair Bolsonaro. The health crisis and the increase in poverty spurred the mobilization of various groups, both critical and supportive of the government. During the analyzed period, 438 active movements were recorded. In 2020, their actions were concentrated in large metropolitan areas, but in 2021, they expanded to intermediate cities. The data show how the political and social context influenced their agendas. Conservative and far-right groups challenged WHO guidelines and rejected the SDG framework, while left-wing movements promoted initiatives against poverty and in defense of health, education, and labor rights. This period reflected deep disputes and a lack of consensus in Brazilian society regarding a fairer and more sustainable future. The research was conducted within the scope of the DATALUTA Network, which manages the Database of Struggles for Spaces and Territories, analyzing since 2020 the relationship between these struggles and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).