Brazil 2026 election disinformation and neutrality measures

In late July 2026, Brazil inaugurated the “Boto Fé no Voto” campaign, a coordinated effort led by the Coordinating Ecumenical Service to combat election‑related false information within faith communities. The initiative introduced dialogue circles, training sessions, and educational media, aligning with new electoral‑justice rules that require labeling AI‑generated content and ban deepfakes.

By early August, neutrality mandates expanded to specific sectors. The Catholic Church’s Province of Natal issued pastoral instructions prohibiting clergy from endorsing candidates, using church facilities for campaigns, or posting partisan content on social media. Simultaneously, the Electoral Prosecutor’s Office directed security agencies in Rio Grande do Norte to refrain from using uniforms, vehicles, or official actions to benefit any political group, calling for stricter oversight by internal affairs units.

In late August, the Electoral Public Ministry extended these warnings to religious entities in Rondônia. The Ministry advised against using worship services for electioneering and reminded leaders that under Brazilian law, political parties cannot receive donations from religious or charitable entities. The Superior Electoral Court (TSE) maintains that using temples for political promotion constitutes a “deviation of purpose” that impacts impartiality. Violations regarding the use of religious assets can result in fines, the revocation of a candidate’s diploma, or ineligibility for office. Regional Electoral Prosecutor Leonardo Caberlon noted that “religious freedom is not an absolute right” in this context.