Center of the Study of Violence - NEV/USP

Abstract

Since 1990, NEV has analyzed aspects of the intertwining of democratic consolidation and the persistence of violence. Recently the research program focused on the study of the quality of democracy from the perspective of human rights and violence. Successive expectations and prognosis about democracy have failed so far: there has been no regression but democratic rule of law remains a distant goal. How well such institutions perform while applying the laws, or implementing programs dictated by laws will reflect on their legitimacy. This in tum should reflect on the legitimacy of laws and in the strengthening of rule of law. We propose to explore how the legitimacy of key institutions is constructed, or jeopardized, in the contacts of between citizens and civil servants. This is will be limited to the local institutions: the local municipal administration, the local school, health center, labor courts, police services, and local justice centers. Emphasis is given to new innovative legislation and programs. We will explore how macro and micro phenomena come together and impact each other. This will be done from the perspective of citizens, as well as from civil servants involved. The study will take the form of a longitudinal panel with multiple contacts over a period of time. International comparisons on specific issues will take place through similar topical studies that will be carried out in: Mexico City and South Africa (Johannesburg) (the police and courts); and in New Delhi, Cape Town, and Berkeley (housing, land use, use of public space, etc.). Cut crossing issues are law enforcement in the frontiers with Ecuador, Mexico and South Africa (Johannesburg). In all settings, gender and vulnerable age groups (youth, children and the elderly) will receive special analyses. (AU)