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Author: gabrielalecurci@gmail.com

  • BRICS Without the Dollar: How a New Currency Could Shake the American Economy

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    BRICS Challenging Dollar Dominance

    The BRICS group — Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa — is coordinating ways to trade among themselves using their own currency, different from the U.S. dollar. This move has the potential to weaken the dollar’s hegemonic position as the global reserve currency and the standard for international trade transactions, a status that has supported the economic power of the United States for decades.

    Domino Effect: Declining Demand for the Dollar

    The dollar maintains its value and influence mainly because it is widely used in international trade and held in central bank reserves. If the BRICS countries start trading among themselves in their own currency, global demand for the dollar will plummet. Fewer dollars circulating internationally means a devaluation of the American currency, rising inflation, and loss of U.S. purchasing power.

    Sanctions and Influence Power Compromised

    The United States uses the dollar as a geopolitical weapon: it controls the global financial system and imposes economic sanctions that hit countries and companies challenging its interests. If BRICS adopts another currency, member countries can circumvent these sanctions, drastically reducing U.S. influence on the international stage.

    Impact on U.S. Deficit Financing

    The U.S. depends on selling Treasury bonds to finance its public deficit since international investors buy these bonds with dollars. With reduced use of the dollar, fewer countries and foreign investors will be interested in these bonds, increasing U.S. interest rates and making it harder to finance American debt, potentially leading to a severe fiscal crisis.

    Consequences for the Financial Market and U.S. Domestic Economy

    Losing reserve currency status may trigger capital flight, instability in the U.S. financial markets, and less easy credit, which has fueled U.S. economic growth for decades. This impacts jobs, investments, and the standard of living of Americans.

    Resistance and Uncertain Future

    Although the U.S. still holds economic and technological advantages, the possibility of a strong and united economic bloc like BRICS using its own currency poses a real and growing threat to American supremacy. The future will depend on the U.S.’s ability to adapt or respond to this structural change in the global financial system.

    References

  • PIX: The Revolution That Threatens Card Companies’ Profits and Promotes Financial Freedom

    What is PIX?

    PIX is an instant payment system created by the Central Bank of Brazil, launched in November 2020. It allows real-time transfers and payments, 24/7, free of charge for individuals.

    Threat to Card Corporations

    The business model of major credit card companies, like Visa and Mastercard, relies on charging fees ranging from 1% to 2.5% per transaction. PIX, on the other hand, offers significantly lower fees — about 0.33% for businesses — and is often free for consumers. This difference means substantial savings for merchants and consumers, making PIX an attractive and challenging alternative for traditional card operators.

    How Card Companies’ Dominance Affects People’s Wallets

    The near-monopoly of card companies causes merchants to pass high fees onto consumers, who end up paying more for goods and services. Additionally, banks and card issuers often charge high interest rates on credit use, directly impacting family budgets and personal finances. PIX breaks this cycle by offering a payment method with little or no fees, helping to lower the final cost for consumers.

    Financial Freedom for Countries

    Beyond cost reduction, PIX promotes financial inclusion by allowing unbanked individuals to participate in the digital economy. It facilitates access to essential financial services like bill payments, transfers, and online purchases without relying on traditional financial intermediaries. This strengthens countries’ financial sovereignty, reducing dependence on foreign financial systems and promoting a more self-sustaining economy.

    Reactions from Card Corporations

    The growing popularity of PIX has generated significant reactions among credit card companies. In July 2025, then-US President Donald Trump criticized the system, claiming it harms American companies. This stance reflects concerns over market share loss and decreasing revenues from transaction fees.

    The Future of PIX

    PIX continues to evolve, introducing new features like installment payments, allowing consumers to split purchases into multiple payments directly through the system. This innovation further expands PIX’s reach, making it a powerful tool in transforming the global payment system.

    References

  • Childhood Hunger That Harms the Future at Work

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    Imagine growing up hungry and having your brain deprived of essential nutrients to function properly. This is the harsh reality for millions of children facing malnutrition. The impact goes far beyond physical health: lack of food in childhood can impair cognition for life, limiting job opportunities and perpetuating cycles of poverty.

    The Impact of Malnutrition on Child Cognition

    During the early years of life, the brain develops rapidly and requires specific nutrients to form essential neural connections. Malnutrition, especially deficiencies in iron, zinc, and fatty acids, can cause delays in cognitive development, problems with memory, attention, and learning. Studies indicate these deficiencies directly affect intellectual capacity and school performance.

    Consequences for Adulthood and the Job Market

    Adults who suffered malnutrition in childhood often face challenges in the job market. Cognitive impairments can result in lower productivity, difficulty learning new skills, and less education. Consequently, these individuals have a harder time securing well-paying jobs, increasing the likelihood of remaining economically vulnerable.

    The Poverty and Malnutrition Cycle

    Childhood malnutrition is both a cause and effect of poverty. Limitations in cognitive and productive capacity reduce chances of social mobility, perpetuating the poverty cycle across generations. Furthermore, health costs and low productivity impact economic development in poorer countries, creating a difficult-to-break vicious circle.

    The Importance of Early Intervention and Public Policies

    Investing in child nutrition is investing in society’s future. Supplementation programs, school feeding, and nutritional education are fundamental to ensure children grow with full cognitive development. Effective public policies addressing malnutrition can break the poverty cycle and open doors to better job opportunities.

    References:

  • Italy Confirms Right to Citizenship by Descent and Overturns Restrictive New Rules

    In a historic decision, Italy’s Constitutional Court rejected the restrictions imposed by Law 74/2025, which limited Italian citizenship by descent (jure sanguinis) to children and grandchildren of Italian citizens. The court reaffirmed that citizenship by blood is a birthright, acquired automatically under the law in force at the time of birth, with no generational limits. This ruling opens the door for millions of descendants of Italians worldwide who had been excluded by previous reforms.

    What the Constitutional Court Ruled

    In ruling No. 142/2025, issued on July 31, 2025, Italy’s Constitutional Court addressed three fundamental principles:

    1. Citizenship by Descent is a Birthright: Italian citizenship by blood is acquired automatically at birth, according to the law in effect at that time, with no need for subsequent recognition.
    2. No Generational Limits Before 2025: Before Law 74/2025, there were no generational limits on the transmission of Italian citizenship by descent.
    3. Need for Individual Judicial Review: Restrictions on citizenship must allow for individual legal review, and arbitrary administrative rules are insufficient.

    This decision allows individuals affected by previous reforms, such as Law 74/2025, to legally challenge those restrictions.

    Impact on Diaspora Communities

    Millions of people, especially in Latin America, lost the right to Italian citizenship by descent due to the 2025 reforms. In Brazil, for example, many descendants of Italians who migrated in the 19th and early 20th centuries were excluded. The Constitutional Court’s decision represents a significant victory for these communities, enabling them to claim their Italian citizenship.

    Next Steps and Legal Implications

    Following the Constitutional Court’s ruling, descendants of Italians affected by the 2025 reforms can now seek judicial recognition of their Italian citizenship. The Court also emphasized that significant changes to citizenship rules must occur through proper legislative processes, not arbitrary administrative decisions. This ensures that future reforms respect the rights of citizens and the Italian diaspora.

    References:

  • Gaza: A People Without Land, Food, or Hope

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    While the world watches silently, more than 60,000 Palestinians have already lost their lives in Gaza due to violence, hunger, and forced displacement. The humanitarian tragedy worsens daily, with children dying of hunger and families being expelled from their homes. What is happening in Gaza is a crisis of apocalyptic proportions, and the international community must act now.

    Forced Displacement: Palestinians Losing Their Homes

    The Israeli military offensive in Gaza has displaced approximately 1.9 million Palestinians, about 90% of the region’s population. Many families have been forced to abandon their homes and seek shelter in precarious conditions, facing extreme temperatures and lack of basic resources. The destruction of infrastructure, including hospitals and schools, has further worsened the situation, leaving civilians vulnerable and without access to essential services.

    Uncontrolled Hunger: Children Dying of Starvation

    Food shortages in Gaza have reached alarming levels, with more than 470,000 people facing extreme food insecurity. Children and the elderly are the main victims of this crisis, with reports of deaths from malnutrition in overcrowded hospitals. Lack of access to food and clean water, combined with the destruction of health systems, has created a scenario of widespread hunger and indescribable human suffering.

    Insufficient Humanitarian Responses: Aid Arrives Late and Inadequate

    International organizations warn that the humanitarian aid sent to Gaza is insufficient to meet the population’s needs. Despite efforts by NGOs and UN agencies, the distribution of food and medicine faces significant obstacles due to the imposed blockade and insecurity in affected areas. Lack of safe and continuous access to the region prevents an effective response to the ongoing humanitarian crisis.

    Call for International Action: The Time to Act is Now

    The international community must act immediately to end the violence, ensure unrestricted humanitarian access, and support efforts for a lasting political solution. It is imperative that Palestinians’ human rights be respected and that concrete measures be taken to alleviate suffering and restore the dignity of a people long living under occupation and repression.

    References:

  • Child Malnutrition: The Deadly Cycle Trapping Generations in Poverty

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    More than just a health issue, child malnutrition is a silent sentence condemning millions of children to a future of misery. Scientific studies and reports from international organizations reveal that lack of essential nutrients in childhood harms not only physical growth but also cognitive development, resulting in adults with lower productivity and greater vulnerability to poverty.

    The Impact of Malnutrition on Child Development

    Malnutrition in childhood severely affects physical and mental development. Research shows that malnourished children have stunted growth, impaired cognitive development, and a higher risk of chronic diseases later in life. Additionally, malnutrition can cause nutritional deficiencies, weakening the immune system and increasing susceptibility to infections.

    Poverty and Malnutrition: A Vicious Cycle

    Poverty is both a cause and a consequence of malnutrition. Families in vulnerable economic situations have limited access to nutritious food, perpetuating malnutrition and maintaining the poverty cycle. Moreover, malnutrition increases healthcare costs, reduces productivity, and slows economic growth, keeping poverty and disease ongoing.

    Long-Term Consequences of Child Malnutrition

    Childhood malnutrition has lasting effects. Studies indicate that malnourished children are at greater risk for chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases in adulthood. Malnutrition also affects school performance and employment opportunities, limiting economic prospects and perpetuating poverty.

    The Need for Immediate and Sustainable Actions

    It is urgent for governments and international organizations to implement effective policies to combat child malnutrition. This includes improving access to nutritious food, promoting healthy feeding practices, and ensuring adequate healthcare for at-risk children. Only with coordinated actions can the poverty cycle be broken, ensuring a healthier and more prosperous future for upcoming generations.

    References:

  • Who Created PIX and How It Revolutionized Payments in Brazil

    The Creation of PIX

    PIX was created by the Central Bank of Brazil to modernize and simplify the country’s payment system. Development began in 2018, and the system was officially launched in November 2020. The initiative aimed to offer a fast, secure solution available 24/7, unlike traditional methods like TED, DOC, and cards.

    Who Was the Creator

    Although PIX is an initiative of the Central Bank, its development involved various internal technical teams and specialized fintech consultants. The then president of the Central Bank, Roberto Campos Neto, was one of the main supporters and drivers of the project, aiming to transform Brazil’s financial system and encourage digital innovation.

    How PIX Works

    PIX allows instant transfers and payments at any time of day, processing transactions in seconds. It is accessible through banking apps using PIX keys — such as CPF (tax ID), email, phone number, or a random key — to identify accounts, simplifying daily financial operations.

    Revolution in Payment Methods

    Before PIX, Brazilians depended on methods like TED and DOC, which only works during business hours and often charges fees. PIX removed these barriers by enabling instant, free transfers for individuals, increasing financial inclusion. Additionally, PIX introduced innovations such as installment payments, contactless payments, and integration with billing systems.

    Social and Economic Impact

    PIX significantly changed consumer and merchant behavior, facilitating e-commerce, bill payments, and even donations. The system’s speed and convenience encouraged the formalization of small businesses and expanded access to financial services for population segments previously excluded from the traditional banking system.

    References

  • Canada Responds to Trump’s Tariffs and Flirts with BRICS

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    The trade dispute between Canada and the U.S. is no longer just about money — it is starting to shape new alliances. With increasingly tough tariffs, especially on lumber and steel, Canada is responding with domestic measures and seeking new partners, such as BRICS. The question is: are we witnessing a historic repositioning of the country?

    Ottawa’s Immediate Response

    In recent weeks, the Canadian government announced a package of up to 1.2 billion Canadian dollars to support the lumber industry, which has been hit hard by tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. The goal is to prevent job losses and maintain competitiveness in the global market, even with the extra weight of American tariffs.

    Market Diversification

    Canadian companies have accelerated their search for new trade partners, increasing exports to countries in Asia, Africa, and Latin America. This diversification strategy aims to reduce the country’s historical dependence on the U.S. market, which still accounts for a significant share of Canada’s foreign trade.

    Interest in BRICS

    BRICS — formed by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, and now expanded to include Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and others — has emerged as an alternative route. With growing economies and increasingly robust trade agreements, the bloc offers Canada the chance to expand its global reach while reducing vulnerability to Washington’s decisions.

    Pragmatism Over Ideology

    Analysts stress that Canada’s approach to BRICS does not signify an ideological break with the U.S., but rather a pragmatic stance. Ottawa wants more strategic options at the negotiating table and does not wish to be dependent on a single partner, especially in times of political and trade uncertainty.

    References:

  • Canada and BRICS: A New Perspective on Global Relations

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    BRICS and Its Expansion

    BRICS, originally formed by Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, has been expanding to include countries like Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. This expansion reflects growing dissatisfaction with the Western-dominated economic order and a search for alternatives that offer greater autonomy and influence on the international stage.

    Canada’s Role in Global Relations

    Canada, traditionally an ally of the United States and a G7 member, has faced challenges in its trade relations with the U.S., especially after high tariffs imposed by former President Donald Trump. These developments have led Canada to reconsider its alliances and explore new strategic partnerships.

    Canada’s Interest in BRICS

    Although there is no official confirmation that Canada has applied to join BRICS, there is speculation about a possible interest in strengthening ties with the bloc. Growing tensions with the U.S. and the desire for economic diversification may motivate Canada to consider BRICS as a viable alternative to strengthen its position in global trade.

    Implications for Canadian Trade and Foreign Policy

    Closer ties with BRICS could offer Canada access to new markets and investment opportunities. However, questions arise about democratic values and human rights, especially concerning some BRICS members. Canada would need to balance its economic interests with its ethical and political commitments when considering deeper collaboration with the bloc.

    References

  • Monetizing Children: When ‘Views’ Become Child Labor

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    The era of the family spectacle

    In recent years, millions of families have started documenting children in videos and live streams that generate views, followers, and income. The phenomenon — known by researchers as sharenting or kidfluencing — turns intimate routines into content measured by metrics and algorithms, often without safeguards for privacy, emotional development, or fair compensation for minors.

    When play turns into a script and exposure

    The problem is not just cute videos: reports and studies show children pressured to perform, daily routines filmed almost without pause, and scenes that expose them to aggressive comments, harassment, and security risks. Psychologists warn of impacts on identity, self-esteem, and consent — often compromised when the “yes” comes only from a legal guardian.

    Parents, audience, and the attention economy

    For many parents, creating content has become a source of income or a business. Brands and platforms monetize reach; algorithms reward emotional and repeatable content — and children become the means, not the end. This dynamic strongly incentivizes maximum exposure, even at the expense of rights and well-being.

    Legislation in motion — examples and gaps

    Some governments have already responded: U.S. states like Illinois have passed laws requiring financial protections and applying rules similar to those for child actors. Similar proposals are emerging elsewhere, such as in New York, with advocates calling for deletion rights and trust accounts to ensure children receive a share of the profits. Still, legal coverage remains uneven, leaving significant protection gaps.

    Documented consequences — cases raising alarms

    Recent cases show that online fame can hide abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation — when the pursuit of audience justifies potentially harmful practices. Young people who grew up under constant filming report loss of autonomy and trauma linked to an image that remains permanently online.

    What international organizations recommend

    Agencies such as UNICEF and UN bodies call for integrated policies: limiting commercial exposure, offering tools to remove content, educating parents, and creating legal frameworks that reconcile child protection with family freedom. Recommendations include protection from violence, preservation of privacy, and safeguarding of children’s economic rights.

    How judges and lawmakers can act — practical proposals

    1. Recognize child-related content as protected labor: apply rules similar to those in entertainment — time limits, legal supervision, and ensuring part of the income goes into a trust fund.
    2. Right to removal and correction: allow children, upon reaching legal age, to request the deletion of seriously invasive content.
    3. Mandatory financial transparency: require accounting and fair revenue sharing.
    4. Digital monitoring and parental education: empower child protection agencies to monitor practices and educate families about risks and consent.

    Rethinking the value of childhood

    This is not about banning families from sharing memories, but preventing the pursuit of clicks from turning childhood into a product. Clear rules can balance family freedom, economic protection, and the right of every child to grow up free from exploitation.

    References