President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva criticized protectionist and unilateral policies during the G7 summit in Évian‑les‑Bains, France, on Tuesday [1], [2].
The remarks highlight growing tensions between emerging economies and the G7 over trade barriers and the methods used to combat transnational crime.
Speaking on June 16, 2026 [1], Lula said that international solidarity is declining and that anti-crime efforts must respect the sovereignty of each nation [3], [4]. He specifically targeted the approach to narcotics and organized crime, saying that unilateralism cannot be the basis for these policies [5].
Lula's presence at the summit placed him alongside U.S. President Donald Trump, where he advocated for a shift away from policies that favor billionaires [6]. The Brazilian leader suggested that current global efforts are hampered by a lack of coordination and political will.
"The world faces a deficit of ‘implementation and political will’," Lula said [7].
He emphasized that the fight against drug trafficking and transnational crime requires a multilateral approach, rather than one where a few powerful nations dictate terms to others [5]. This stance reflects a broader push by Brazil to assert its role as a leader of the Global South in international forums.
"Unilateralism cannot be the base of policies to combat narcotics trafficking and transnational crime," Lula said [5].
“"The world faces a deficit of ‘implementation and political will’"”
Lula's critique at the G7 underscores a strategic effort by Brazil to challenge the traditional dominance of the G7 nations in setting global trade and security agendas. By linking the fight against organized crime to national sovereignty, Brazil is pushing for a diplomatic framework where security cooperation does not result in external interference in domestic affairs.
