Formalizing the inclusion of neurodiversity in Brazil's national intelligence and defense

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.58960/rbi.2025.20.260

Keywords:

autism, state intelligence, neurodivergency, neurodiverse advantage

Abstract

Neurodiversity, including autism, ADHD and dyslexia, offers great benefits for Brazil’s intelligence and defense. Rather than being seen as a disability, it should be recognized as a source of wealth and potential. Integrating neurodiversity into these sectors can broaden perspectives, create competitive advantages, harness unique skills and improve threat and opportunity analysis. Practical examples in Brazil include data analysis, AI development and cybersecurity. However, challenges such as stigma, prejudice, the need for cultural change and a lack of infrastructure must be addressed. To promote the inclusion of neurodiversity, it is essential to increase knowledge, review hiring methods, implement inclusive policies and create welcoming work environments.

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Author Biographies

Bruno Martini, Air Force University

PhD candidate in Aerospace Sciences at the Air Force University (UNIFA), master in Dynamics of Coastal and Oceanic Systems (UFPR). Visiting Scholar at the Space Policy Institute (SPI) at George Washington University (2023-2024). Member of the Simulation and Prospective Scenarios Laboratory (UNIFA), the Astronomy and Physics Group of Concórdia/SC (GAFC) and the International Academy of Space Studies (IASS).

Jamille Secchi, Clínica Corpus Lab

Corpus Lab Clinic. Master in Health and Work Management (UNIVALI).

Lívia Aparecida de Almeida Sousa, Air Force University

Air Force University (UNIFA). PhD in Applied Linguistics (UFRJ) and Master in Literature Science (UFRJ). Researcher at the Simulation and Prospective Scenarios Laboratory (UNIFA) and reviewer at the Historical-Cultural Institute of the Air Force (INCAER).

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Published

2025-05-30

How to Cite

Martini, Bruno, Jamille Secchi, and Lívia Aparecida de Almeida Sousa. 2025. “Formalizing the Inclusion of Neurodiversity in Brazil’s National Intelligence and Defense”. Brazilian Journal of Intelligence, no. 20 (May). Brasília, Brasil. https://doi.org/10.58960/rbi.2025.20.260.

Data statement

  • The research data is contained in the manuscript