For the first time since taking office in January 2003, an Ibope opinion poll shows that a majority of those interviewed do not approve of Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s social programs and activities in the areas of education and health.

In a September poll, 50% of those interviewed said they saw the government’s social programs and educational and health efforts favorably. That number has now fallen to 47%. Those who were unfavorable were 45% in September, now they are 48%.

With regard to the government’s hunger and poverty combat projects, there was an improvement in the approval level, although the majority of those interviewed continue to disapprove of the programs.

In September 52% disapproved of the programs, which fell to 50% in the latest poll. Those who approve were 43%, and are now 46%.

The opinion poll was conducted by Ibope for the National Industrial Confederation (CNI) between December 3 and 7, when 2002 people over the age of 16 were interviewed in 143 municipalities. The poll’s margin of error is give or take 2 percentage points.

ABr