Brazil’s Presidential Runoff: Political Futures and Global Implications

Canning House convened an in-person panel discussion ahead of Brazil’s presidential runoff election, taking place on Sunday 25 October.

The discussion explored the campaigns of incumbent President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, who advanced to the second round after neither secured the majority required to win outright in the first round.

The panel brought together four distinguished speakers: Richard Lapper, journalist and author; Dr Andreza Aruska de Souza Santos, Director of the King’s Brazil Institute; Vera Helena Innes, Chair of the Brazilian Chamber of Commerce in Great Britain; and Lucas Nascimento, Executive Director, LATAM Trading at J.P. Morgan.

During a wide-ranging and engaging conversation, panellists examined the key issues shaping the runoff. These included Lula’s bid for a fourth term, the enduring influence of the Bolsonaro political movement, Brazil’s economic outlook and the election’s broader international implications. They also considered how a victory for either candidate could shape Brazil’s political direction, economic priorities and global partnerships, as well as the challenges facing the country in the years ahead.

Canning House extends its thanks to all four panellists for sharing their expertise and insights, and to everyone who joined us for an informative and lively discussion.