Brazilian Labour Party (1981)

The Brazilian Labour Party (Portuguese: Partido Trabalhista Brasileiro, PTB) is a political party in Brazil. It was founded in 1981, during the period of abertura – the gradual political liberalization of the military dictatorship that had ruled Brazil since 1964. The PTB claims to be the heir to the legacy of the historical Brazilian Labour Party (also Partido Trabalhista Brasileiro, PTB) founded by Getúlio Vargas in 1945, which was dissolved by the military regime in 1965.

While claiming continuity with the earlier PTB, the 1981 PTB was largely founded and led by Ivete Vargas, Getúlio Vargas' niece. This led to considerable contention with other groups claiming the mantle of trabalhismo (laborism), most notably the Democratic Labour Party (PDT) founded by Leonel Brizola.

The party's ideology is generally considered to be social democracy, although its positions and policies have varied considerably over time and under different leaderships. Historically, the PTB has appealed to a broad base of support, including labor union members, small business owners, and sectors of the middle class.

The PTB has participated in several governments and coalitions in Brazil since its founding. Its electoral performance has fluctuated significantly. The party has held seats in the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate, and has also held governorships in various states.

The party's platform generally emphasizes economic development, social justice, and national sovereignty. It advocates for policies aimed at reducing poverty and inequality, promoting job creation, and strengthening the national economy. The PTB has also been involved in debates surrounding labor rights, social security, and education reform.