Brazil's TSE reports 380% increase in political violence against women

Political violence against women in Brazil has seen a significant increase, with 149 cases reported between January and August 2024, representing a 380% rise compared to the same period in 2022. This surge exceeds the historical series recorded since 2019.

Under Article 326-B of the Electoral Code, it is a crime to harass, humiliate, persecute, or threaten female candidates or officeholders based on gender discrimination to impede their political activities. These attacks are increasingly amplified through digital environments and social media.

To combat this, the Superior Electoral Court (TSE) has established specific monitoring mechanisms and a specialized dashboard. Furthermore, a protocol signed between the TSE and the Prosecutor General's Office (PGE) has established a specialized workflow through the TSE Women's Ombudsman. This service provides guidance, registration, and referral of reports, aiming to prevent re-victimization and identify urgent risks to physical integrity.