Brazilian agricultural sector: potentials and problems from different points of view

Abstract

This paper aims to discuss potentials and problems for the Brazilian agricultural sector from different points of view by applying the surfing global change (SGC) methodology. The intention is to give relevant stakeholders room for statements and to find solutions to improve the overall situation. The contrarian perspectives of indigenous peoples, government, private sector and international organisations shows the difficulty of finding acceptable compromises, although poverty reduction is a common goal. Both private and public sectors are in favour of FDIs and other investments into agriculture by using partly neoclassical and Keynesianism approaches. Indigenous peoples and international organisations focus on human rights and the unequal power of resources. First, the previously mentioned SGC methodology will be explained in detail. Secondly, the paper takes a closer look at the underlying theories. Thirdly, the arguments of the four different points of view will be portrayed. Afterwards the authors present their consensus approach.