Given the scarce studies on the security issues raised by the Digital Silk Road (DSR), we aim to add novelty regarding the repercussions of this dimension of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) by focusing on the case of Brazil. As a major Latin American nation with strong ties to China, Brazil is an extraordinary case study when it comes to assessing the effects of any BRI-related dimension. Despite Brazil's reluctance in officially joining the BRI, Brazil became part of the DSR after signing a Memorandum on the Digital Economy with China in 2023. By claiming that traditional liberal frameworks are insufficient to grasp the complexities of the digital space, we propose that the DSR is best approached through the lenses of Digitalpolitik. Based on a qualitative methodology complemented by an online survey and pre-selected interviews, we find that the initiative strengthens Brazil's digital ecosystem but poses security risks to its digital sovereignty.
Policy implications
- Given the increasing foreign investment in the digital sector, Brazil may face risks related to its digital sovereignty, and therefore must prioritize the protection and security of its critical digital infrastructure.
- Closer ties with China and participation in the DSR could negatively impact Brazil's relationship with the United States, so Brazil should seek to balance its cooperation with China while maintaining its relationship with Washington.
- Brazil should be aware that, despite the development benefits, DSR could serve a perceived revisionist interest of China, with associated risks.
- Emerging powers, particularly in Latin America, must remain attentive to China's advances and digital investment, assessing potential risks and threats, and promoting mechanisms to prevent statecraft maneuvers (e.g., access to sensitive data and manipulation).
- Regarding the international community, it is faced with a new reality shaped by cyberspace, with China appearing to lead, so it must respond by promoting global governance instruments that ensure the proper management of transnational digital infrastructure and protect the interests of all states.
- The West, in light of China's advancements in the digital sector, appears to be falling behind, and in response, should promote alternative opportunities to DSR, particularly through the Build Back Better World and Global Gateway initiatives.
Photo by Landiva Weber