Amapá is a federated state of Brazil, located on the Atlantic coast in the far north of the country. The state of Amapá is no exception to the rule of violence. Bordered to the north by France (Guyana) and Suriname, to the east by the Atlantic Ocean and to the south and west by Paraguay, it is delimited to the south by the Amazon Delta.
The judo project, which was set up in 2008, aims to combat crime in the city of Macapa, the state capital. Macapa is considered one of the most violent cities in Brazil and in 2019 was ranked 48th among the most dangerous cities in the world. Sport, and in particular judo, have been set up with the support and assistance of state services as well as with the support of the private sector.
After several years of operation, it seems clear that violence is decreasing in the city and more generally in the state of Amapá; a decrease of around 23%. In addition to the police actions that accompany the establishment of more favourable living conditions, the practice of judo has played an important part in these results.
Thus, 36 structures receiving around 2,500 young people have been opened, with a training centre for teaching judo. The project is led by Antonio Viana, a police officer, head of the Macapa police school and a 6th dan.
Given the success of the programme, it should now be extended to other states such as Amazonas and the city of Manaus. This is a great observation for Brazil in challenging circumstances.
More information: CLICK HERE