The Brazil Elections Project 2018 will present a reflection on the foreign policy proposals of the main presidential candidates. The analyzes presented are based both on government programs, and in statements made by candidates(as) in the mainstream media.
Jair Bolsonaro has aroused both favorable and contrary passions due to his positions considered to be strong. In terms of foreign policy, Bolsonaro doesn't usually take a big stance, showing that this topic does not have the importance it gives to others. This relative lack of treatment of the topic is delicate as international issues are no longer as distant as they once were., defining many issues developed in Brazil.
Bolsonaro made few international trips of a more political nature, but one that draws attention was to Taiwan. In a clear demonstration of confrontation with China, This visit is expected to lead to important diplomatic disruptions in a possible Bolsonaro presidency. We cannot forget that China is Brazil's most important trading partner, in addition to being one of the members of BRICS, thatshould be part of the Brazilian international insertion strategy.
On your visit to the United States, His main objective was to show himself as a liberal candidate, approaching positions currently defended by the US president, Donald Trump. However, when we analyze his speeches regarding foreign policy and international relations, What we see is a candidate with a very strong anti-globalization agenda, so that one should not expect a possible government to adhere to international regimes.
Brazilian foreign policy is based, since the Baron of Rio Branco, on the principle of multilaterality and active insertion of Brazil. An attempt to isolate the country, given its characteristics and current degree of internationalization, will certainly take away the role that Brazil has in many of the forums.
Another example of his lack of commitment to multilateralism is his proposal to revoke the Refugee Law and propose the creation of a refugee camp in Roraima. This type of proposal shows a lack of knowledge of international law and its importance. The refugee issue cannot be treated as a matter of police or isolation. Not to mention the denial of Brazil's own past: besides being a country of immigrants, We also had many Brazilians who emigrated and were accepted by countries. Recognizing our history and giving back to other countries must go beyond jingoistic beliefs.
Remembering that this analysis focuses exclusively on the issue of foreign policy and the positions of candidate Bolsonaro, its proposals in this field are few, superficial and inappropriate for a country like Brazil. If you carry out your ideas, what we will see is a diminution of Brazilian foreign policy, that will serve empty speeches.