An initiative by Canal UM BRASIL, in partnership with RenovaBR, Insper, and curated by the OAS, transforms presidential trajectories into learning experiences for new leaders.

The exercise of power goes beyond electoral disputes, and listening to the stories of those who have occupied decision-making positions is an essential step in the learning and qualification of future political leaders. It is with this purpose that the Presidential Dialogues series was created, an initiative of Canal Um Brasil, in partnership with RenovaBR, Insper, Fecomércio, and curated by the OAS (Organization of American States). The series, in interview format, proposes conversations with former heads of state from Latin America about the personal challenges, dilemmas, and lessons learned from the act of governing. 

The premiere episode invites Andrés Pastrana, who was president of Colombia between 1998 and 2002, to reflect on his career and the impact of his choices. In an interview conducted by journalist Jaime Spitzcovsky, the conversation seeks to shed light on the human dimension of public leadership – loneliness, responsibility, ethics, loyalty, and decision-making in high-pressure contexts on issues that affect the daily lives of the population. 

By revisiting significant episodes in his life—such as the kidnapping he suffered in 1988 and his cooperation with the Brazilian government of Fernando Henrique Cardoso in the arrest of 'Fernandinho Beira-mar'—Pastrana shares lessons about public responsibility and the exercise of leadership in conflict scenarios, offering a rare perspective on the concrete challenges faced by those who have been at the center of power. Furthermore, he explains why, in his view, political training schools are essential for strengthening democracy and developing more responsible leaders. 

Listening to those who have governed, understanding their mistakes and successes, and reflecting on decisions made in real-world contexts is a powerful learning tool for anyone wishing to pursue a career in public life. Initiatives such as Presidential Dialogues They contribute to bringing politics closer to its formative dimension, reinforcing values such as dialogue, good governance, the fight against corruption, and responsibility to society.

The episodes of Presidential Dialogues They are available on the UM BRASIL Channel on YouTube.