Brazil electoral crimes guide for 158 million voters

As over 158 million Brazilian voters head to the polls to elect federal and state deputies, senators, governors, and the President, authorities are highlighting various electoral crimes that threaten the integrity of the democratic process.

Key illegal practices include ‘boca de urna’ (campaigning at polling stations on election day), vote buying through the offering of money or advantages, and the unauthorized distribution of campaign materials. Other offenses include electoral slander, defamation, the dissemination of false information, and ‘caixa 2’ (failing to declare campaign funds to the Superior Electoral Court).

Legislation and the Electoral Code establish punishments for these conducts to protect voter freedom, candidate equality, and the overall legitimacy of the election results.