ABSTRACT
This chapter presents an updated image of Brazil based on its main political, economic, and societal features. It first discusses the role of Brazil when it comes to sustainability issues, particularly the global carbon cycle and the country's greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions profile. The second part assesses key features of the Brazilian economy (with special prominence given to the agriculture and energy sectors); political system; and international insertion profile. Seeking a more central position for Brazil in world affairs, the Lula da Silva administration challenged (peacefully) the centrality of Western democracies in the international system, marking a visible deviation from the Cardoso years. The "Global South" strategy, aimed to gain recognition and power in the international system, was not exclusively directed toward large economies; on the contrary, Brazil expanded its diplomatic ties to other developing countries under the narrative of South-South cooperation.
