​Deep-rooted discrimination lies at the heart of inequalities in Brazil, limiting millions of peoples’ full inclusion in society and key institutions, including government. This is especially true for Afro-Brazilians and indigenous peoples, who make up a majority of Brazil’s population, yet face overwhelming disadvantages in every aspect of their lives.

Brazil’s traditional peoples live with extreme social exclusion and under the threat of violence, struggling to protect their territorial rights while land ownership remains largely in the hands of the rich and powerful. To realize a more equitable country, Brazil must acknowledge that profound, longstanding discrimination has allowed inequality to thrive—and then move boldly to confront it.

Featured News and Stories

Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (left) and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa (right) at the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
In the press

Opinion: The G20 must follow civil society’s and social movements’ lead

The 2024 G20 meetings hosted by Brazil established a trend of centering civil society voices at this global fora. At the 2025 G20, South Africa must continue this momentum.

A man in a short-sleeved shirt inspects lush green plants in a dense, leafy garden. He appears focused as he reaches out and closely examines the foliage surrounding him. Sunlight filters through the leaves, illuminating his face and the vibrant plants.
Stories

Fulfilling Our Commitment: Third Annual Update on Our Pledge for Tenure Rights and Forest Guardianship of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities

Today, the Ford Foundation shares our third annual update on our COP 26 pledge to support the tenure rights and forest guardianship of Indigenous Peoples and local communities (IPs and LCs).

A group of people hold hands as they stand in a line.
News

Philanthropy takes action to promote labor rights in Brazil

A joint $8.5M USD fund supports labor movements and civil society organizations in Brazil and advances the rights of urban and rural workers.

Grantees of the Creativity and Civic Space Initiative.
Stories

The Cultural Leaders Protecting Civic Space Worldwide

Meet the nine artists and organizations of Ford’s Creativity and Civic Space initiative who are working to protect and expand civic space around the world.

Grant makers in Brazil

Portrait of Atila Roque

Atila Roque

Director, Brazil Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Portrait of Fábia de Sá Freire Casal

Fábia de Sá Freire Casal

Program Assistant, Brazil Office Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Portrait of Paulo Vicente Cruz

Paulo Vicente Cruz

Program Associate, Brazil Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Portrait of Maíra Junqueira

Maíra Junqueira

Program Officer, Brazil Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Portrait of Fatima Mello

Fátima Mello

Program Officer, Brazil Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Portrait of Erika Yamada

Erika Yamada

Program Officer, Brazil Rio de Janeiro, Brazil