Recently, Paulo Sergio Rufino Henrique, a CTIF Global Capsule Foundation scientist, had the privilege of visiting the Fundação Fernando Henrique Cardoso (Fundação FHC) in São Paulo. The Foundation, created by Brazil’s former president and renowned sociologist Fernando Henrique Cardoso (FHC), is one of Latin America’s most important spaces for democratic dialogue and knowledge production.
Paulo was warmly received by the Foundation’s General Director, Mr. Sergio Fausto, a political scientist and key figure in Brazil’s public intellectual landscape. During the meeting, the two engaged in a meaningful conversation about future technologies and the evolving role of science diplomacy in addressing today’s global challenges.
Founded in 2004, shortly after FHC’s presidency, the Fundação FHC was envisioned not just as a historical archive, but as an active center for public debate and policy reflection. Inspired by institutions linked to former leaders in Europe and the United States, Cardoso’s goal was clear:
“I wanted it to be not just a center of historical memory but a place for debates on democracy and development—two causes that have engaged me since early on.”
Two decades later, the Foundation remains a unique intellectual hub in Brazil and Latin America. Its work includes debates, exhibitions, educational events, the production of books, articles, videos, and teaching materials—all aimed at promoting citizenship, democratic values, and intellectual rigor.
As part of the visit, Mr. Sergio Fausto offered Paulo a guided tour of the Foundation’s archives and exhibitions. The experience provided deep insights into the legacy of Fernando Henrique Cardoso, a towering figure in Brazil’s modern political and academic history.
FHC served as Brazil’s 34th president from 1995 to 2003, becoming the first to be reelected for a second term. His administration is remembered for pivotal economic reforms that stabilized inflation, advanced privatizations, and opened Brazil to global markets.
Beyond politics, President Fernando Henrique Cardoso is internationally acclaimed for his contributions to the ¨Dependency theory¨, as well as his research on slavery and political institutions. Among his many accolades are the Prince of Asturias Award for International Cooperation and the Kluge Prize from the US Library of Congress.
Today, FHC chairs the Foundation that bears his name and remains active on global platforms, including the Clinton Global Initiative, Brown University, the United Nations Foundation, and The Elders.
During their discussion, the scientists Paulo Sergio and Sergio Fausto reflected on the role that science and technology must play in global diplomacy—particularly at a time when geopolitical tensions, climate change, and digital transformations demand coordinated and ethical responses.
The Fundação FHC, in its renewed cycle of engagement, is committed to helping Brazil navigate the next two decades by promoting policies and dialogues that foster democratic governance, regional integration, and socio-environmental equity. The Foundation puts it clearly:
“The next twenty years are critical for Brazil to reach higher development standards. Will we advance more steadily and cohesively with robust democratic governance, less divisive polarization, deeper integration into the global arena, and reduced socio-environmental inequalities?”
To this end, the institution continues to organize debates, publications, and educational programs that place Brazil at the center of constructive global conversations.
Paulo Sergio Rufino Henrique expressed his deep gratitude to Mr. Sergio Fausto for his hospitality and insight, as well as to Mr. Benedito Sverberi, the Foundation’s manager, and Ms. Marcya Lima, who leads the General Directorate and oversees the Foundation’s collections.
Discussions are already underway between Paulo and Mr. Fausto on potential future collaborations focused on science, technology, diplomacy, international cooperation, and geopolitical foresight.
To learn more about the mission and activities of the Fundação Fernando Henrique Cardoso, visit:
