Brazil inducts first indigenous and quilombola diplomats

For the first time in Brazilian history, indigenous and quilombola representatives have joined the diplomatic career. Marcelo Kariri Menezes, of the Kariri people, and Idjahure Terena, of the Terena people, took office at the Itamaraty Palace in Brasília as third secretaries.

The new diplomats are part of the 2026–2028 class at the Rio Branco Institute, which consists of approximately 60 approved candidates. This cohort is noted for its diversity: nearly half of the students belong to historically underrepresented groups, including 17 Black individuals, seven people with disabilities, one quilombola, and the two indigenous members. The class also features a record 45% female participation.

Interim Foreign Minister Maria Laura da Rocha described the event as an act of resistance and emphasized that the diplomatic corps must reflect the diversity of the Brazilian people. The inclusion of these groups is supported by affirmative action policies, such as the Racial Equality Statute and recent legislation expanding quotas for indigenous and quilombola populations in federal public service.