On June 26, 2025, the Brazilian Center for International Relations (CEBRI) participated in a democratic dialogue at the Itamaraty Palace during the seminar "Brazilian Society and Foreign Policy." The event marked a historic moment by bringing together, in roundtable discussions, ministers, diplomats, Indigenous leaders, representatives of the Black movement, academics, and union leaders—all with equal voice in shaping Brazilian foreign policy. Representing CEBRI were Antonio Souza e Silva, Advisory Council Member for Institutional and Governmental Relations, and Ariane Costa, Deputy Director and Specialist in Geopolitics and International Trade.
In the morning sessions, discussions highlighted how profound global geopolitical transformations directly impact the lives of Brazilians. Professor Cristina Pecequilo warned of the risks posed by the emerging multipolar order, while Laura Waisbich (Igarapé Institute) emphasized the opportunities available to Brazil amid international crises. The debate gained practical contours when Sueme Mori (CNA) illustrated how trade barriers affect rural producers, and Manuella Mirella (UNE) advocated for greater academic integration with countries from the Global South.
The seminar innovated by putting indigenous peoples and the black movement at the center of decisions on international policy. Dinamam Tuxá (APIB) launched a provocative question that resonated in the auditorium: "How many Indigenous diplomats do we have in Itamaraty?" Wania Sant'Anna presented compelling data, highlighting how foreign policy can be a tool for confronting structural racism.
The discussions also explored concrete proposals to institutionalize social participation. Maria Regina Soares de Lima (IESP-UERJ) presented successful models from other countries, while João Pedro Stédile (MST) asserted that "foreign policy cannot be made solely by elites." Minister Mauro Vieira committed to creating a permanent council for social participation within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, receiving enthusiastic applause from the audience.
By the end of the day, it was evident that Brazil was writing a new chapter in its diplomatic history. It is no longer a question of deciding for society but of society itself. The seminar demonstrated that the strength of Brazilian foreign policy in the 21st century will derive precisely from its ability to listen to and incorporate a plurality of voices—from the halls of Itamaraty to Indigenous villages, from universities to labor unions. A new paradigm is emerging in which diplomacy is as diverse as the Brazilian people themselves.
Moderated by experts from IPEA and partner institutions, the discussions underscored the importance of collaboration among government, academia, and the private sector in advancing transformative agendas. The closing session reaffirmed the BRICS countries' shared commitment to promoting more inclusive and effective multilateral cooperation, laying the groundwork for future joint initiatives. With the conclusion of the event, Brazil reaffirmed its central role in fostering global dialogue—connecting diverse voices in pursuit of sustainable and equitable development.
