The upcoming soccer World Cup will take place from June 12 to July 13, 2014. (Ricardo Stuckert/ABr)

By SANDRO MAIRATA 
Channel: Latin American Affairs

In preparation of its second turn as World Cup host (hosting the tournament for the first time in 1950), soccer giant Brazil – a geographic giant as well - is sparing no expenses in its efforts to fortify security for the tournament.

BBC Mundo reports the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) is considering giving discounts for tickets to the 2014 World Cup for those willing to surrender their guns, in coordination with the Brazilian Ministry of Justice.

This is seems to be a clear cut attempt at making amends with local gangs, but will they answer the call? On May, 2009, twelve host cities were announced, including Rio de Janeiro, which still ranks as one of the most dangerous cities in the world, and reports of days-long clashes between security forces and gangs in favelas, or shantytowns, are quite common.

As the report says, some remain quite skeptical on the matter.

“Authorities believe free tickets and autographed t-shirts by star players would make a far more attractive incentive,” it reads.   


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