UNICEF and security forum demand child protection plans for 2026 elections

UNICEF and the Brazilian Public Security Forum have partnered to demand concrete proposals from candidates in the October 2026 elections regarding the reduction of violence against children and adolescents. Joaquim Gonzales-Aleman, the UNICEF representative, stated that violence both inside and outside the home is the agency’s primary concern for the upcoming elections.

As the deadline for candidate registration approaches, UNICEF staff will analyze the government programs of those running for president and governor. The initiative aims to ensure candidates provide adequate, non-simplistic solutions to address violence and high homicide rates among minors. UNICEF also intends to invite candidates to publicly commit to prioritizing the fight against intentional deaths of individuals under 18.

Data from the Brazilian Public Security Forum indicates that while intentional violent deaths of children and adolescents fell by 10.8% between 2024 and 2025, the 2,079 recorded occurrences last year represent an average of at least five deaths per day.