Brazil records nearly 400 femicide deaths in first quarter of 2026

The Ministry of Justice and Public Security reported 399 femicide cases in Brazil during the first three months of 2026, the highest quarterly total since the national database began in 2015. The figure represents an average of more than four women killed each day.

In the Amazon state, nine femicides were recorded from January to May 2026. Seventy‑eight percent of the victims were over 35 years old and four of the killings involved knives, the most common weapon in domestic settings. The cases occurred in Manaus, Barcelos, Carauari, Coari, Manaquiri and São Gabriel da Cachoeira. The data highlight ongoing challenges in prevention, reporting and protection for women across Brazil.

Officials and experts warn the numbers signal systemic failures in law enforcement, social services and public policy, urging stronger protective measures and faster investigations.