This article presents the results of a doctoral research project carried out at the PDTU/NAEA/UFPA graduate program. The research examined the .Calha Norte. Program (CNP), designed to protect and develop the Amazon border (North Arc), within a governance framework. Throughout the development of this project from 1986-2002, there were constant crises regarding its financing by the Brazilian state. In spite of this, such an analysis allows us to confirm that public authorities always tried to provide the minimal operational conditions for the project, therefore reflecting the impact of critical evaluations upon public policy development in the Amazon. From the end of the second term of President Fernando Henrique Cardoso (FHC), there was a gradual increase in public resources to finance actions in the Northern border region, where the CNP is located, resulting from the application of the New National Defense Policy (NDP). Increases in financial support has continued throughout the administration of President Luís Inácio Lula da Silva.
