Renewal of Basic Education Fund in Brazil: Disputes on Funding and Federal Distribution

Abstract

The last few years have been ones of intense debate in the Brazilian National Congress about the Basic Education Fund (Fundeb) seeking ways for this temporary mechanism to become permanent and improved. Debates on privatization of education and on tax justice are key elements in these discussions. This article sets out to analyze discussions around the amount of financing for Fundeb, funding sources, federal decentralization, and privatization proposals, presenting the active interest groups advocating on different sides of the agenda.