UFRJ implements new protocols following student assault and controversy

A violent confrontation at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ) has sparked conflicting narratives regarding allegations of Nazism and racial abuse. The incident occurred at the Institute of Philosophy and Social Sciences (IFCS) when law student Deivid Lima confronted history student Diego Costa Araújo over his clothing and accessories, which reportedly featured symbols associated with the punk band Death in June.

Deivid Lima alleges that Araújo committed racial slurs and physical aggression, prompting a group of students to intervene. Conversely, Araújo denies the allegations of Nazism and racial abuse, stating he was wearing an anti-Nazi pin and was subsequently beaten by dozens of people. Araújo has expressed that he feels it is ‘impossible’ to return to the university due to safety concerns and ongoing doxxing.

In response to the violence, the IFCS has announced new protocols. These measures include prohibiting community members from engaging in physical confrontations or coercive removals, and warning against the risks of private citizens attempting citizen arrests, which can escalate into collective violence. The university is also establishing clearer rules regarding audiovisual recordings in common areas.