At present, topics related to National Defense should engage Brazilian society as a whole. Since the development of the National Defense Strategy, relating public policies must be defined jointly. By incorporating in its essence the idea that decisions concerning peace and war are not detached from popular sovereignty, the White Paper will allow a democratic approach to defense issues. The Defense Policy meets the interests of both society and state. The endeavor of creating and reviewing legal documents concerning national defense, including the Defense White Paper, shall contribute to tightening this bond even further. The White Paper represents a useful means for civilian leaders to deepen their understanding of the present and future of National Defense. At this time, when changes in the global strategic scenario are so fast and deep, the dialogue among different sectors gains greater relevance. The task of preparing the White Paper has not been developed within the offices of the Defense Ministry. We sought society’s participation in the reflection and debate of the themes herein. The implementation of thematic workshops, seminars and roundtables held with civilian and military representatives, Brazilians and foreigners took the discussion on defense matters to the five regions of the country. Such contributions were most valuable; hence I would like to express our most sincere appreciation to those who have engaged in these discussions. In addition to bringing internal and external transparency to the criteria of how our Armed Forces are used, the preparation of this document is relevant for the deepening of society’s pool of knowledge on the military field. I hope this initiative serves also as an invitation to engagement on National Defense related discussions. Only with close monitoring by society and with its essential contribution, will the National Defense Policy rise to the ever stronger, fairer and more democratic country we wish to build. Celso Amorim