Brazil's June Violet campaign spotlights rising elderly violence

The annual June Violet (Junho Violeta) campaign, observed on 15 June and coordinated by Brazil's Ministry of Human Rights and Citizenship, raises awareness of violence against older people. In the state of Paraná, the Atlas of Violence 2026 reports a 2024 interpersonal violence rate of 172.1 cases per 100,000 seniors—almost double the national average of 88.4. Between 2019 and 2024, Paraná saw a 4.8% rise in elder homicides, while the country overall recorded a 13.2% decline.

Experts note that abuse takes many forms. Letícia Thiel Stinglin of CEDIVIDA said, “Os idosos estão entre os grupos mais vulneráveis à violência, e os tipos mais frequentes são a violência física, a violência psicológica, a negligência ou abandono, além da violência patrimonial e da violência sexual.” Under‑reporting remains a major obstacle, as many aggressors are family members or caregivers. The campaign urges communities to watch for physical, behavioural and financial warning signs.

The 2024 campaign also highlights growing digital exclusion. Afubesp president Maria Rosani warned, “A exclusão digital não pode ser tratada apenas como uma questão tecnológica. Quando uma pessoa idosa perde acesso ao atendimento presencial, ela também perde segurança, acolhimento e autonomia para exercer direitos básicos.” Forced digitisation of banking services and changes to the Cabesp health plan’s governance are seen as additional threats to seniors' rights and wellbeing.