Brazil Ministry of Education launches seal against gender violence

The Brazilian Ministry of Education (MEC) has established the ‘Safe and Violence-Free Educational Institutions for Girls and Women’ seal. This initiative, introduced via Ordinance MEC No. 690/2026, aims to recognize public higher education and professional/technological institutions that implement effective policies to prevent, support, and combat violence against women and girls.

Evaluations for the seal will be based on evidence across four key dimensions: prevention, support, reporting and follow-up, and maintaining a safe academic environment. Recognition will be awarded in Gold, Silver, and Bronze categories based on documented effectiveness.

The program will be managed by the Secretariats of Higher Education (Sesu) and Professional and Technological Education (Setec) of the MEC, alongside the Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel (Capes). Participation is voluntary and does not involve the transfer of financial resources. The seal remains valid for three years and is subject to suspension or cancellation if requirements are not met.