Diplomatic narratives on science, technology and innovation: power, cooperation and perspectives from Brazil as a developing country

Abstract

Science diplomacy has recently become a buzzword in policy and in academic discussions. Definitions and approaches have been informed by literature produced by practitioners of science diplomacy situated in developed countries. This article maps and systematizes narratives authored by Brazilian diplomats on science, technology and innovation (STI) and their connections with international relations dynamics and issues, such as power, cooperation, development, security and the environment. By addressing pieces produced by practitioners as narratives, rather than as scientific categories that describe and analyze social phenomena, the article explores how STI is perceived and framed by Brazilian diplomats. The methodology included the selection and systematization of publications authored by ministers of Foreign Affairs, in whose diplomatic writings the words “science”, “technology”, “innovation” and their variants were searched; and pieces on STI produced by career diplomats. Writing from the perspective of Brazil as a developing country, most of reviewed pieces hold a highly critical view towards the international dimensions of STI, which are not seen as politically neutral. However, none of the diplomats disagree on the need for Brazil and other developing countries to build STI capacities as a means to accumulate power and/or to develop. International cooperation on different geometries is seen as crucial for that though perceptions on the effectiveness of North-South and South-South STI cooperation can vary.