Brazilian Civilian Capacity and the UN System Opportunities and Challenges

Notwithstanding the country'(s global aspirations, Brazil is still punching below its weight on matters of peace and security. Specifically, it registers comparatively limited civilian capacity in international peace operations. What is more, its development cooperation portfolio – whether bilateral or triangular – is relatively modest, even if growing. Even so, there are important opportunities for Brazil to pick-up its game. For example, it can work with the United Nations (UN) to expand its influence on issues of international importance.

This Strategic Note considers the state of Brazilian engagement with the UN peace and security agenda. It finds that of the 85,000 civilians working in the UN system, just 587 (0.7%) are Brazilian. Only 36 Brazilians are serving in peace operations. The Note finds that there are important entry-points to expand Brazilian engagement, including through expanding contributions to the Junior Program Officer (JPO) program and expanding public servant secondments. A more concerted effort to expand a Brazilian presence could, in theory, also enhance the Brazilian governments ability to influence the global peace and security agenda.

Available in Portuguese only.

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