The concept of autonomy in Latin America and Brazilian foreign policy

Igor Stipic

Master's thesis

Changing Autonomy in times of PT: Explaining the rise and fall of the Southern Giant

Abstract:

The objective of this thesis is to analyze the concept of autonomy, taking as the case study Brazil under the Workers Party Government (2003-2016). Approach that will be taken aims at combining perspectives of Latin-American structuralism with those of realism and interdependency. Thesis essentially concentrates on two specific issue areas: global economy and international politics. By constructing a theoretical framework, I aspire to identify and analyze various factors considered to have a direct impact on the study matter. In doing so, I consider the behavior of distinct variables and their effect on the degree of autonomy. Finally, thesis addresses problems of international insertion for peripheral countries, considering possibilities and limits of truly autonomous action.

Abstract:

The objective of this thesis is to analyze the concept of autonomy, taking as the case study Brazil under the Workers Party Government (2003-2016). Approach that will be taken aims at combining perspectives of Latin-American structuralism with those of realism and interdependency. Thesis essentially concentrates on two specific issue areas: global economy and international politics. By constructing a theoretical framework, I aspire to identify and analyze various factors considered to have a direct impact on the study matter. In doing so, I consider the behavior of distinct variables and their effect on the degree of autonomy. Finally, thesis addresses problems of international insertion for peripheral countries, considering possibilities and limits of truly autonomous action.

Keywords

International Relations, Brazil, Autonomy

Keywords

Regional Integration, PT, Latin America, International System, Soft Power, Autonomy, Brazil, Foreign Policy

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 3. 9. 2015

Thesis defence

• Date of defence: 8. 9. 2016
• Supervisor: Shirley Gotz Betancourt
• Reader: Miroslav Zajíček

Vysoká škola ekonomická v Praze

Master programme / field:
Ekonomie a hospodářská správa / Ekonomická a regionální studia Latinské Ameriky