Brazilian Blue Helmets in Haiti: An Instrument of Smart Power for the Brazil Foreign Policy?

The United Nations Stabilization Mission for Haiti (MINUSTAH) meant a new perspective for the Brazilian foreign policy. Thanks to the Force Commander – indicated by the country since the beginning of the mission- and the highest troop strength – the tasks performed by the Brazilian peacekeepers in Haiti became worldwide known, especially after the pacification of violent neighborhoods of Cité Soleil and Bel Air. Acting always on behalf of the UN mandate, and facing harsh situations, such actions might be considered a manifestation of the Brazil Hard Power. At the same time, Brazilian blue helmets have brought a great contribution to rebuild the country, particularly through the work carried out by the Brazilian Engineering Company (BRAENGCOY), and performing Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations in the aftermath of natural disasters such as hurricane Katrina and the earthquake of 2010. In these tasks, some Brazil typical cultural features stood out, such as solidarity, generosity, and affection towards the local people, should be understood as one of the manifestations of its Soft Power. Either through actions intended for the pacification of the country or by the bias of humanitarian actions, Brazilian peacekeepers have been able to acquire heart and minds, in a synergy of hard and soft power. In this regard, the article aims to analyze if does exist a skillful combination of hard and soft power which allows conclude if the Brazilian blue helmets in Haiti might be considered a Smart Power instrument for Brazil’s foreign policy.