At a Glance
Alliances & Memberships
- UN
- G20 (host 2024)
- BRICS
- Mercosur
- CELAC
- OAS
Foreign Policy Overview
Active multilateralism under Lula; non-aligned; seeks UNSC permanent seat; Amazon/climate diplomacy.
Key Positions on Major Issues
Peace mediator on Ukraine; pro-Palestine; Global South leader; Amazon rainforest protection.
UN Voting Record Notes
Often abstains on Russia-Ukraine; votes with Global South; critical of Israel in Gaza.
Economy & Trade
Brazil possesses the largest economy in Latin America, driven by strong agribusiness (soy, beef, sugar), mining (iron ore), and a robust manufacturing sector including aerospace (Embraer). The nation utilizes the Brazilian Real (BRL) and relies heavily on exports to China, the United States, and Argentina. Government policy currently focuses on the 'Neo-industrialization' plan to boost green technologies and high-tech manufacturing, while managing a GDP heavily influenced by service sector dominance (nearly 60%).
Military & Security
Brazil maintains the largest military in Latin America, focusing on territorial integrity and the protection of the 'Blue Amazon' (maritime EEZ) and the Amazon Rainforest. Defense spending hovers around 1.1% of GDP, with a doctrine strictly prohibiting nuclear weapons under the Treaty of Tlatelolco and the 1988 Constitution. The country is a major contributor to UN Peacekeeping operations, historically leading MINUSTAH in Haiti, and emphasizes 'non-intervention' and diplomatic resolution over military force.
Recent History
Following the return to democracy in 1985, Brazil's foreign policy has been defined by 'active and Altruistic' diplomacy, particularly during the first two terms of Lula da Silva (2003–2010). The country saw a brief shift toward right-wing isolationism under Bolsonaro (2019–2022), which strained relations with China and Europe. Since 2023, the 'Brazil is Back' policy has sought to reposition the country as a leader in climate diplomacy and South-South cooperation. Hosting the G20 in 2024 and preparing for COP30 in Belém (2025) are the current pillars of its international re-engagement. Brazil continues to balance its relationship between its largest trading partner (China) and its traditional security and political partner (USA).
International Memberships
- United Nations (UN)since 1945
Founding member; permanent seat aspirant.
- Mercosur / Mercosulsince 1991
Founding member; central to regional integration.
- BRICS+since 2009
Grew significantly during 2024 expansion; key forum for South-South cooperation.
- OECD (Accession Candidate)since 2022 (Process Start)
Currently in the accession process to align with global standards.
MUN Negotiation Profile
Global South / Non-Aligned / G20 Leader
Multilateralist, "Bridge-builder" between North and South, legalistic and emphasizing consensus.
- Violation of national sovereignty over the Amazon rainforest under the guise of "environmental protection."
- Unilateral sanctions not authorized by the UN Security Council.
- Any interventionist policy that bypasses the principles of the UN Charter.
- "Urgent reform of the UN Security Council to include permanent representation for South America and Africa."
- "Implementation of "Climate Justice" where developed nations provide technology transfer and financing to the developing world."
- "The necessity of a peaceful, negotiated settlement in the Ukraine and Gaza conflicts, avoiding the logic of military escalation."