Brazil Holds Third Congress on Combating Sexual Violence Against Children

The III Brazilian Congress on Combating Sexual Violence Against Children and Adolescents concluded in Brasília on May 21. Organized by the Ministry of Human Rights and Citizenship, the event brought together specialists, public officials and civil society to discuss protection strategies. It is part of the national “Faça Bonito” campaign for May Orange, which marks the National Day of Combatting Abuse and Exploitation of Children and Adolescents on May 18, established by Federal Law 9.970/2000 in memory of Araceli Cabrera Crespo.

Lucas Lopes, executive secretary of the Brazilian Coalition for the End of Violence against Children and Adolescents, stressed the pivotal role of schools, saying, “A escola ainda é o equipamento público onde a gente consegue ter o maior ponto de contato entre o Estado brasileiro e as crianças e adolescentes. Então, investir na prevenção na escola é a nossa melhor aposta.” He called for stronger support from public security and tutelary councils, and highlighted the responsibilities set by Law 13.431/2017 (Protected Hearing Law). The discussion also addressed the need to regulate the National Policy and revise the National Plan, noting current financing gaps due to budgeting processes that omit the Ministry of Planning and Budget.