The importance of domestic political engagement: the example of questioning autonomy and sovereignty as defensive concepts in Brazilian foreign policy

Abstract

One of the central foreign policy challenges that will confront the victor of October presidential election is how to make this area of public policy relevant and of interest to Brazilian politicians and the wider public. This article addresses this challenge by arguing that it is time for Brazilians to re-examine what is meant by autonomy and sovereignty within the context for their country's foreign policy. No policy prescriptions or interpretations are offered. Attention is instead focused on arguing that the national, regional and global context has changed, making reflexive adherence to pre-existing conceptual understandings is dangerous and does carry costs. If nothing is to change, the article argues, this should be a conscious choice that comes from politically and publicly engaged debate, which in turn will provide Itamaraty with the direction and support it needs to continue advancing Brazil's national interest.