2. THE INTERNATIONAL SITUATION

2.1 With the end of the East – West confrontation, in the current process of rearrangement of forces, an uncertain and unstable multipolar international scenario has emerged, engendered by the lack of correlation among the centers of strategic, military, political and economic power, the future evolution of which remains difficult to predict.

2.2 The end of the Cold War has rendered obsolete the simplistic generalization arising out of the ideologically and militarily bipolar system which had prevailed until then. Currently, despite the reduction in the risks of a worldwide nuclear confrontation, a certain degree of strategic predictability is no longer feasible.

2.3 Local conflicts, which are now occurring on almost every continent, the resurgence of ethnic, nationalist and religious extremism, as well as the phenomenon of fragmention which is now seen in many countries, make it clear that the traditional concepts such as sovereignty, self-determination and national identity continue to be important.

2.4 During this transitional phase, as new rules of political and economic coexistence between nations are being established, characterized by the absence of clear paradigms and by the growing participation of non-governmental actors, Brazil strives to establish its strategic role and its priorities in the area of defense, free from any ideological model.

2.5 The panorama of uncertainties that characterizes the current global situation mandates that the defense continues to require diligence by national governments, and, also, that the aspect of military power continues to be of utmost importance to the survival of nation-states as independent entities. It is not realistic to imagine a nation-state of reasonable size and international influence that could forgo having a dependable defense force. The armed forces constitute an instrument for the exercise of the right to self-defense, a right, moreover, which is enshrined in the United Nations Charter.

2.6 South America, far from the focal points of global tension, is considered to be the most demilitarized region in the world. The re-democratization that has taken place in the Americas has tended to reduce the likelihood of conflicts. Regional disputes have been managed at tolerable levels.

2.7 For Brazil, a country of different regions and a diversified profile – belonging simultaneously to the Amazon, Atlantic, Southern Cone, and Plata river basin –, the notion of regional space extends beyond the continental landmass of South America, also including the South Atlantic.

2.8 Thus, when examining the strategic prospects for the region, it is important to recall that the mosaic of countries and sub-regions which constitute it is extremely complex, demanding a multifaceted regional role, based on a policy of harmonization of interests.

2.9 Brazil has not been involved in a conflict with any of its neighbours for over a century, and it has worked to promote greater integration and closer relations among the nations in the Americas and, consequently, has gained international credibility.

2.10 The strengthening of the integration process provided by Mercosur, the increasingly close relations with our neighbours in the Amazon region – developed within the scope of the Amazon Cooperation Treaty – the increased cooperation with the Portuguese-speaking African countries and the consolidation of the South Atlantic Zone of Peace and Cooperation – the result of a positive and concrete diplomatic action – have formed a veritable ring of peace around the country, making it possible to concentrate efforts to achieve a national strategy for development and for overcoming social inequalities.

2.11 The country is not, however, totally free from risks. Despite its peaceful coexistence in the international community, it may be forced to become involved in conflicts originating elsewhere, due to threats to Brazil’s national heritage or vital interests.

2.12 In the regional framework, there continues to be zones of instability that can threathen Brazilian interests. The actions of armed groups that are active in neighbouring countries, on the edge of the Brazilian Amazon, as well as international organized crime, are amongst the points that cause concern.

2.13 Military capabilities and diplomacy are manifestations of national sovereignty and dignity, and Brazil has demonstrated in a clear and consistent manner its determination to live in peace and harmony in accordance with the principles and norms of international law, fully respecting the commitments it has taken on.