This chapter explores Brazil’s role in the global promotion of the Portuguese language particularly between the South Atlantic and China. Through the lens of geopolitics and Cooper’s framework of language policy and planning, the study investigates the intertwined political, economic, and cultural motivations behind language promotion initiatives. It analyses Brazil’s unilateral actions as well as engagement with the institutional framework of the Institute for the Promotion of Portuguese Language within the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries. Drawing upon a review of scholarly works, official reports, and policy documents, the chapter shows that Brazil’s foreign policy has actively promoted the Portuguese language in certain geographies but has yet to prioritise China, despite significant bilateral relations between China and Brazil. Furthermore, the chapter highlights the role of Macau as a valuable bridge between China and the Portuguese-speaking countries, which has been increasingly recognised by the People’s Republic of China. It also argues that Brazil must fully leverage its promotion of the Portuguese language in the Global South to achieve broader foreign policy goals. This multifaceted approach not only enhances Brazil’s diplomatic and economic networks and advocates for the interests of developing nations but also positions it as a key player in international forums.

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Geopolitics of Language Promotion: Brazil’s Portuguese Language Strategy Between the South Atlantic and China

  • João Simões,
  • Daniel Veras,
  • Luís Pires

摘要

This chapter explores Brazil’s role in the global promotion of the Portuguese language particularly between the South Atlantic and China. Through the lens of geopolitics and Cooper’s framework of language policy and planning, the study investigates the intertwined political, economic, and cultural motivations behind language promotion initiatives. It analyses Brazil’s unilateral actions as well as engagement with the institutional framework of the Institute for the Promotion of Portuguese Language within the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries. Drawing upon a review of scholarly works, official reports, and policy documents, the chapter shows that Brazil’s foreign policy has actively promoted the Portuguese language in certain geographies but has yet to prioritise China, despite significant bilateral relations between China and Brazil. Furthermore, the chapter highlights the role of Macau as a valuable bridge between China and the Portuguese-speaking countries, which has been increasingly recognised by the People’s Republic of China. It also argues that Brazil must fully leverage its promotion of the Portuguese language in the Global South to achieve broader foreign policy goals. This multifaceted approach not only enhances Brazil’s diplomatic and economic networks and advocates for the interests of developing nations but also positions it as a key player in international forums.