Is anyone in this field able to recommend their own or others' research into the topic of how Brazil's economic dependence on other countries (including the United States, China, and Russia) affects its current/previous foreign policy? So far I've learnt that Brazil is highly dependant on commodities, that the U.S. remains its largest contributor of FDI, trade and imports to China and US largely revolve around agriculture, and that imports of Russian gas into Brazil have soared recently. I've managed to research Brazil's foreign policy more generally, under Lula.
For context, I'm an IR student at the University of Exeter, currently producing a case study into topic for a module titled 'international politics of the global south'. I'd therefore much appreciate recommendations to sources that approach this issue in some way, from a political lens, or any other advice you may have to offer.
Thank you very much!
Hello Thomas! I’ve analyzed the situation and I might offer some insights. According to Brazilian experts, the country’s foreign policy is closely tied to its economic climate. In a way, the Brazilian president’s international engagement hinges on favorable domestic conditions. For instance, during Lula’s first term (2003-2010), economic growth, effective income distribution policies, and a commodities boom (including soy, oil, and minerals—major exports, especially to China) provided ample room for foreign policy maneuvers. However, after the 2008 crisis and the subsequent period, Brazil’s economy faced challenges under Dilma Rousseff (2011-2016). Some argue that unfavorable domestic factors—such as the waning commodity boom, rising food and fuel prices, and heavy reliance on highways—impacted Dilma’s foreign policy trajectory. Best of luck with your case study!
Brazil's economic dependence significantly influences its foreign policy in several ways:
Firstly, it can lead to a focus on economic diplomacy, where Brazil seeks to strengthen ties with key trading partners to ensure market access and investment opportunities.
Secondly, economic vulnerabilities may compel Brazil to seek strategic partnerships or alliances to mitigate risks and stabilize its economy. Additionally, economic dependence can influence Brazil's stance on international trade agreements, as it balances economic benefits with concerns about sovereignty and domestic industry protection.
Moreover, Brazil's economic reliance on certain commodities can shape its approach to environmental and sustainability issues, impacting its global image and relationships with environmentally conscious nations.
Overall, Brazil's economic dependence plays a pivotal role in shaping its foreign policy priorities and strategies.