It is estimated 200,000 people took part in protests in Brazil's biggest cities on Monday. Rio de Janeiro alone is said to have hosted a 100,000 strong crowd last night, with approximately 65,000 people gathering in Sao Paolo. 

Smaller protests last week were allegedly met with a violent police response, and there have been some reports of violence during the latest mass gatherings. Five police officers are said to have been injured during last night's Rio protests. Rubber bullets and pepper spray were used to disperse unruly crowds.

However, the demonstrations have been largely peaceful, with many describing a carnival like atmosphere among participants. 

The social unrest, the most widespread the country has seen in two decades, has been provoked by a number of factors. The costs of services and taxes have continued to rise - including public transport charges, one of the major catalysts in the latest round of protests - without a related increase in the quality of living.

Authorities are largely seen as corrupt, while there is growing discontent over the amount being spent on major sporting events such as next year's World Cup and the 2016 Olympic Games while local services are neglected.

The demonstrations have coincided with the Confederations Cup, one of the trial events for World Cup 2014.