Lula Defends Multilateralism and Digital Platform Regulations at UN Assembly
President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil delivered a powerful speech at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on September 24, 2024, emphasizing the importance of multilateralism and the need for regulation of digital platforms. While his address touched on critical issues such as the climate crisis and the role of technology in society, some critics have pointed out areas where his speech fell short.
Climate Crisis and Indigenous Rights
Lula highlighted the climate emergencies facing Brazil, including severe flooding in the south of the country and the worst drought in the Amazon in 45 years. He emphasized Brazilian sovereignty over environmental policies and committed to addressing the challenges ahead. However, critics noted that his speech lacked significant references to indigenous peoples and their role in sustainable development. While Lula briefly mentioned the importance of listening to indigenous and traditional communities, he did not address ongoing conflicts related to land rights and environmental protection.
Júlia Neiva of Conectas Direitos Humanos praised Lula for acknowledging the severity of the climate crisis but cautioned against overlooking socio-environmental rights violations in the pursuit of renewable energy solutions. Neiva stressed the importance of inclusive energy transitions and effective participation from civil society and traditional communities in shaping environmental policies.
Digital Platforms and Artificial Intelligence
Another key focus of Lula’s speech was the regulation of digital platforms and artificial intelligence. He criticized the concentration of power in the hands of a few companies and countries, calling for a Global South component in AI development to promote human rights and information integrity. Lula’s remarks on holding digital platforms accountable for hate speech and misinformation resonated with organizations advocating for stricter regulations in the digital space.
Conectas, D-Hub, and Geledés – Instituto da Mulher Negra emphasized the need for international debates on information integrity and AI regulation, urging Brazil to take a proactive stance in regulating digital platforms to combat hate speech, racism, misogyny, and threats to democracy.
Global Crises and Omissions
While Lula condemned the invasion of Ukrainian territory by Russia and highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, critics noted his omission of the Venezuelan political and human rights crisis. Julia Neiva pointed out the significance of Brazil’s role in mediating the conflict in Venezuela and the humanitarian implications of the crisis, including human rights violations and violent repression of protests. The absence of this critical issue from Lula’s speech raised concerns among observers.
As Lula continues his agenda in New York, engaging in discussions on democracy, climate crisis, and extremism, his speech at the UN Assembly has sparked conversations about the role of Brazil in addressing global challenges and upholding human rights. Critics and advocates alike will be closely monitoring the actions taken by the Brazilian government in response to the issues raised at the General Assembly.