Brazil public defenders launch election observation and protection missions

Public defenders in Brazil are implementing measures to ensure transparency and protect rights during the 2026 electoral process. In Ceará, defenders are participating in the 2026 Electoral Observation Mission (MOE), coordinated by the Association of Public Defenders of the State of Ceará (ADPEC) in partnership with the National Association of Public Defenders (ANADEP). Their activities include monitoring electronic voting machine tests, voting procedures, and vote counting, as well as interviewing voters to ensure unhindered access to citizenship.

Under a technical cooperation agreement between the Superior Electoral Court (TSE), ANADEP, and the National Council of Public Defender Generals (Condege), defenders will also provide free legal assistance to candidates and voters in economic vulnerability. Priority will be given to cases involving gender quota fraud, political violence, and political harassment.

Additionally, the Public Defender's Office of the Union (DPU) will hold duty shifts on election days to address violations of fundamental political rights, electoral crimes, and the rights of vulnerable populations, including LGBTQIA+ individuals, women facing gender-based political violence, and traditional peoples.