Brazil approves pepper‑spray law for women, prosecutor calls it populist

The Brazilian Congress approved a bill authorising the commercialisation, purchase and possession of pepper spray by women aged 16 and older. The law, pending signature by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, allows women 18 years old and over to buy the device freely, provided they present a photo ID, proof of residence and a certificate of no criminal record. The spray may contain up to 50 ml and must be sold by accredited retailers who must record the sale and issue an invoice.

Celeste Leite dos Santos, a prosecutor with the São Paulo Public Ministry and president of the Instituto Pró‑Vítima, described the measure as "populismo penal" and a "medida paliativa", arguing that it creates a false sense of security. She warned that misuse can endanger the user—if fired against the wind the spray can return to the holder, and at close range an attacker can seize the device. Santos called for mandatory technical training for buyers and criticised the three branches of government for failing to provide comprehensive safety policies.

The law aims to allow women to defend themselves against assault, but officials stress that proper handling and broader preventive measures are essential.