Brazil Chamber speeds up bill equating misogyny with racism

The Brazilian Chamber of Deputies voted 293‑158 to accelerate the passage of a draft law that would treat misogyny as a crime equivalent to racism. The amendment bypasses committee review and moves directly to a plenary vote. The proposal would make misogynistic insults punishable by two to five years in prison, with higher penalties for aggravated circumstances, such as involvement of multiple offenders or targeting vulnerable groups. Judges could also order the temporary suspension of online accounts that spread misogynistic content.

Opposition comes mainly from evangelical and Catholic parliamentary blocs, which argue the text could infringe on religious freedom and freedom of expression. Deputies Gilberto Nascimento and Kim Kataguiri voiced concerns about voting on an undefined draft. The bill’s rapporteur, Deputy Tabata Amaral, is working on a revised version to address these objections and seek broader consensus. Chamber President Hugo Motta urged support for the accelerated process, while critics warned of possible vagueness in terms like "offense" that could lead to varied interpretations.