G20 Radio Bulletin 95 - President Lula receives an e-book from the G20 in the indigenous Guarani language

The translation serves to enhance the global visibility of the Guarani language, one among the multitude of indigenous languages spoken in Brasil. This translated digital publication is supplemented with versions available in Portuguese, Spanish, and English. Listen to the report and find out more.

Reporter: The inauguration ceremony of the National Council for Indigenous Policy (CNPI) advisors, reinstated by the current government, took place in Brasília, where Djuena Tikuna, a renowned singer from the Amazon known for her contributions to indigenous music, performed the Brazilian national anthem. During the ceremony, the President of Brasil, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, received a copy of the e-book “Brasil in the G20 Presidency.” The document was officially introduced by the Minister of Indigenous Peoples, Sônia Guajajara, and Eliel Benites, a member of the Guarani-Kaiowá ethnicity, responsible for translating the first G20 digital book into an indigenous language – Guarani. 

Eliel: We have prioritized the recognition of indigenous languages, starting with the Guarani language. Putting our language out there is of great importance and symbolism. This moment is very emotional for me, especially. We have a lot of work ahead to include more indigenous languages in the process of translating other materials and enriching the debate within the context of the G20.

Reporter: The digital book translated into Guarani also has versions in Portuguese, Spanish, and English. It consists of 17 pages with basic information about the G20. Part of the national heritage, Indigenous languages are currently under threat of extinction. Recognizing the critical situation and potential loss of various native languages, the United Nations General Assembly has established the International Decade of Indigenous Languages for the period from 2022 to 2032, as emphasized by Minister Sônia Guajajara. 

Sônia: This is how we begin, by showcasing the diversity of spoken languages. It is crucial that we can present our contributions not only for the reconstruction of the country but also to international politics.

Reporter: Data from Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) indicate that Guarani is one of the most widely spoken languages in Brasil, with over 26 thousand speakers. In his speech, President Lula reiterated the Federal Government's commitment to indigenous peoples.

Lula: What we are doing here today is reclaiming a genuine relationship between the Brazilian state, currently represented by the Brazilian government, and the indigenous peoples of our country.

Reporter: One of the priorities of the Brazilian presidency of the G20 is to discuss and promote the sustainable development of the planet, which includes discussing and recognizing indigenous peoples as essential partners in this process.