Lula Reflects on Brazil’s Historic 2023: Achievements and Challenges Ahead
President Lula's year-end address highlights Brazil's social and economic milestones in 2023, outlines security challenges, and sets priorities for 2026.
- • Brazil exited the Hunger Map and reinstated Bolsa Família in 2023.
- • Unemployment rates hit historic lows with significant job creation.
- • Lula announced a national campaign against violence toward women.
- • Brazil regained global respect, hosting 9 million tourists during COP30.
Key details
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva delivered a nationwide Christmas address on December 24, 2023, reflecting on a transformative year for Brazil marked by both accomplishments and ongoing challenges. Lula hailed 2023 as historic, highlighting Brazil's successful exit from the Hunger Map, the reinstatement of the Bolsa Família program, and comprehensive tax reforms including the elimination of income tax for those earning up to R$ 5,000 per month. He celebrated a record low unemployment rate and inflation, as well as the creation of two million jobs, which helped millions improve their income and leave social welfare programs.
On the public safety front, Lula acknowledged crime and violence, especially against women, as pressing issues for 2026. He announced a national initiative to combat violence against women and praised ongoing law enforcement operations targeting organized crime. Internationally, he noted Brazil regained respect and admiration, mentioning a record 9 million tourists during the COP30 climate conference and a diplomatic victory in repealing punitive tariffs from the United States.
Lula also voiced subtle critiques of political opponents, implicitly referencing former President Jair Bolsonaro and his allies, while asserting that those who wished ill for Brazil ultimately lost. He underscored the importance of diplomacy, protecting domestic jobs, and advocated for labor reforms to improve workers' rights, including the call to end the 6x1 work schedule without salary reductions.
Looking ahead, Lula remains committed to addressing security challenges and enhancing social programs as Brazil moves into 2026, affirming faith in the resilience and victory of the Brazilian people.
This article was synthesized and translated from native language sources to provide English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
