On Tuesday (May 27), CEBRI Senior Fellows Fernanda Magnotta and Abrão Neto, along with Senior Researcher Monique Sochaczewski, were awarded the Order of Rio Branco—the highest honor granted by the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Relations.

The ceremony took place at the Palace of Itamaraty in Brasília and was attended by the Vice President of the Republic, Geraldo Alckmin.

Established in 1963, the Rio Branco Order honors Brazilian or foreign personalities who have made significant contributions to national diplomacy or have significantly contributed to the promotion of peace, cooperation, and international security. The distinction is named after Baron of Rio Branco (1845–1912), a diplomat and politician recognized as the Patron of Brazilian Diplomacy. 

For Abrão Neto, Senior Fellow at CEBRI and CEO of Amcham Brazil, the honor recognizes the efforts of institutions that strengthen the country's international insertion:

“his decoration reflects the quality and consistency of Amcham's work in projecting Brazil abroad and promoting relations with the United States. It is an honor to receive this recognition and to be able to contribute collaboratively to Brazil's external agenda.”

Researcher and professor Fernanda Magnotta, Senior Fellow at CEBRI and coordinator of the International Relations course at FAAP, highlighted the symbolism of the honor:

“Receiving the highest decoration awarded by the Brazilian federal government is an immense joy and an honor that brings a lot of emotion. It is particularly special being a woman, young, and a teacher... This recognition represents not only a validation of the hard work and numerous battles fought along the way but also a powerful incentive to continue advancing, inspiring others, and contributing to a more inclusive and plural dialogue in our country.”

For Monique Sochaczewski, Senior Researcher at CEBRI and professor at the Brazilian Institute of Education, Development, and Research (IDP), the honor represents recognition of a long trajectory dedicated to foreign policy:

“I have been researching foreign policy issues for decades, engaging in dialogue, collaborating even while disagreeing with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in the common effort for a better Brazil and a better world. That is why I am very moved by this honor!”

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