By deconcentrating development from previously favored regions, the Cardoso Administration has been attempting to reduce social inequalities and regional disparities. These efforts will continue in FY 2000, focusing on local, community-based alternatives to the use of fire in traditional agriculture, rather than fire suppression. Although contraceptive prevalence in Brazil continues to increase and fertility levels continue to decline, services vary considerably across states and are often limited for adolescents and other underserved populations. Street children and at-risk youth continue to be a serious problem in Brazil, especially in large urban areas of the Northeast. In 1999, problems within the juvenile justice system have also been given higher visibility due to recent, numerous prison rebellions.
Japan alone conducts a multi-billion dollar assistance program directed to Brazil's savanna zone.
As compared to other donors' contributions, the United States ranks fifth in environment and second in reproductive health. National Geographic Country Maps State Dept. Visit our contact page to find the appropriate resource.