Brazilian Union's Secret INSS Lobbying Exposed

Brazilian Agricultural Union Sought to Ease INSS Rules Under Bolsonaro and Lula: Jovem Pan News Investigation Brazil's social security system, INSS, is under scrutiny following an investigation by Jovem Pan News. The investigation centers on Contag, a major agricultural union with nearly 1.4 million beneficiaries. Documents obtained by Jovem Pan reveal that Contag actively lobbied for changes to the rules governing deductions from its members' INSS benefits during both the Bolsonaro and Lula administrations. The investigation uncovered two key communications: one from September 2022 and another from October 2023. Both formally requested adjustments to the regulations surrounding these deductions. A source close to the investigation, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated, "These requests represent a clear attempt to influence the INSS for the benefit of Contag and its members." Contag's agreement with the INSS dates back to the 1990s, making it a long-standing relationship. The investigation raises concerns about potential irregularities and the influence of political figures and banking institutions in the process. The ongoing investigation promises to shed light on the extent of these alleged irregularities and their implications for the INSS.