Brazil Senate expands anti‑money laundering law to cover political parties

The Brazilian Senate approved an amendment to the country's anti‑money laundering legislation (Law No. 9.613/1998), adding political parties and their foundations to the list of entities required to adopt controls for suspicious financial operations. The change, proposed by Senator Alessandro Vieira (MDB‑SE) and supported by Senator Ivete da Silveira (MDB‑SC), was passed by the Security Public Committee and then by the full Senate. It subjects parties to the reporting obligations of the Financial Intelligence Unit (Coaf), aligning Brazil with international standards set by the Financial Action Task Force. The measure does not grant Coaf direct investigative powers over parties; instead, Coaf will flag atypical transactions and forward reports to prosecutors and police when there are indications of crime. Critics argue the reform could encroach on party autonomy, noting that the Electoral Justice already oversees party finances. The proposal now moves to the Chamber of Deputies for further debate before possible presidential sanction.