Brazilian Congressional Delegation Travels to Washington to Defend Democracy, Sovereignty, and International Cooperation
June 1st 2026
Press release
A delegation composed of leaders from four Brazilian political parties will participate in meetings with members of the U.S. Congress, officials from the Organization of American States (OAS) and the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights (IACHR), diplomats, and civil society organizations to discuss democracy, sovereignty, and the importance of the bilateral relationship between Brazil and the United States
WASHINGTON, D.C. – A delegation of progressive members of Brazil’s Congress is carrying out a series of meetings this week in Washington, D.C. with U.S. lawmakers, representatives of international organizations, diplomats, research institutions, and civil society organizations. The mission takes place amid growing international attention to Brazil’s 2026 electoral process, intensified debates on disinformation, and important issues on a bilateral agenda, including the recent announcement by the U.S. Department of State designating Comando Vermelho (CV) and Primeiro Comando da Capital (PCC)--two criminal organizations--as Specially Designated Global Terrorists and its intention to classify them as Foreign Terrorist Organizations as of June 5.
The delegation seeks to strengthen political and institutional channels of dialogue on issues of strategic importance to Brazil, ensuring that the relationship between the two countries is not shaped solely by tensions or unilateral measures.
Supported by the Washington Brazil Office (WBO), Plataforma CIPÓ, Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA), Amazon Watch, and the Center for Economic and Political Research (CEPR), the mission brings together federal Congresswoman Jandira Feghali from Rio de Janeiro, leader of the Communist Party of Brazil (PCdoB) in the Chamber of Deputies; Congressman Pedro Uczai from Santa Catarina, leader of the Workers’ Party (PT); Congressman Pedro Campos of the Brazilian Socialist Party of Pernambuco and, deputy government leader; and Congressman André Janones from Minas Gerais, the leader of Rede Sustentabilidade (Sustainable Network).
Throughout the week, the lawmakers will meet with members of the U.S. Congress, representatives of the Inter-American Human Rights System, the Organization of American States, ambassadors from countries that maintain partnerships with Brazil, journalists, civil society organizations, and institutions dedicated to monitoring democracy and international affairs.
With Brazil’s 2026 elections on the horizon, the delegation aims to reaffirm confidence in the country’s democratic institutions and the strength of its electoral system. The mission also seeks to deepen understanding of Brazil’s institutional reality among key political stakeholders in Washington. According to the participating lawmakers, strengthening and expanding dialogue with international counterparts is a legitimate democratic endeavor and should include a parliamentary effort to reinforce a message of respect for national sovereignty, for decisions made by Brazilian institutions, and for Brazil’s important role on the international stage.
“In a pivotal moment for U.S.-Brazil relations, it is essential to preserve and strengthen channels of dialogue between democratic and progressive forces in both countries. This congressional mission helps advance bilateral engagement grounded in the defense of sovereignty, mutual respect, and the strengthening of multilateralism to address key challenges such as democratic threats, digital disinformation, and the energy transition,” said Maiara Folly, Executive Director of Plataforma CIPÓ.
Paulo Abrão, Executive Director of the Washington Brazil Office (WBO), emphasized the importance of broadening the presence of diverse voices from Brazil’s Congress in the United States:
“At this moment, it is essential to diversify the Brazilian legislative voices engaging with the United States. This delegation brings together high-level democratic leaders whose participation will contribute to a more informed debate and a deeper understanding of Brazil’s political and institutional reality in the international arena.”
Media Contacts
Mariana Franco Ramos
Communications Coordinator – Plataforma CIPÓ
+55 41 98711-3883
Maria José Ferrel Solar
Communications – Washington Brazil Office (WBO)
+1 (202) 258-3308
