Rule of Law and Democracy in Brazil, a discussion with Justice Luís Roberto Barroso

On Wednesday, May 10, 2023, the Brazil Institute of the Wilson Center promoted an exclusive discussion on the “Rule of Law and Democracy” with renowned justice and constitutional scholar, Luís Roberto Barroso. 

This event was part of Strengthening the Rule of Law & Agile Governance Initiative. The Brazil Institute gathered leading legal professionals, scholars, policy experts, and current and former senior government officials from Brazil and the United States in a discussion about the challenges and opportunities that arise in maintaining the delicate balance between the rule of law and democracy. This is especially important given the current global context, which has seen a rise in authoritarianism and attacks on democratic institutions. The director of the Brazil Institute, Bruna Santos, emphasized the importance of hosting this conversation as Brazil and the region face unprecedented challenges to democracy and governance, particularly following the January 8th attacks on Brazil’s capital. 

During his lecture, the minister, who will become Brazil’s Supreme Court president in the next semester, explored the relationship between the rule of law and democracy in Brazil and how it relates to the United States and the world. He discussed the rise of authoritarianism around the globe and its impact on democracy and the rule of law. The audience had the opportunity to ask questions and hear the justice’s thoughts on the main challenges Brazil has faced in recent years.

On Thursday, May 11, 2023, the Brazil Institute and Arnold and Porter hosted an intimate reception in honor of Justice Luís Roberto Barroso. The exclusive gathering provided a unique opportunity for attendees to engage in a meaningful dialogue with Justice Barroso and discuss key themes.