Il potere dell’aspetto culturale nelle relazioni fra Brasile e Paesi africani lusofoni: analisi delle strategie politiche applicate per accrescere la cooperazione internazionale nel primo ventennio del XXI secolo

This research focuses on the strategies adopted by the Brazilian administrations to promote international cooperation with other Lusophone African countries during the first two decades of the 21st century. The first chapter examines the history of the former Portuguese colonies (Angola, Brazil, Mozambique, Guinea-Bissau, Cabo Verde, São Tomé and Príncipe) from the 1950s to the early 21st century. The second chapter examines the policies implemented by Brazil during the presidency of Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (2003–2009). During this period, Brazil pursued an active foreign policy aimed at rebuilding relations with Lusophone African countries, emphasizing shared historical, cultural, and economic ties. This included providing technological and financial support, promoting social and cultural initiatives, with focus on investments in the educational sector. The final chapter focuses on the succeeding presidents. Presidents Rousseff and Temer tried to maintain ties with Lusophone African countries, aiming to ensure stability in these relationships. In contrast, President Bolsonaro shifted the focus toward strengthening relations with the U.S. and Europe. In conclusion, this dissertation tries to analyse the motivations behind Brazil’s investments in Lusophone African countries, assessing whether these policies and use of cultural soft power aim to support development or to enhance Brazil’s international prestige.