Brazil's Human Rights Commission Approves National Policy to Combat Violence Against Women

On November 4, 2026, Brazil's Commission of Human Rights and Participatory Legislation (CDH) approved a landmark bill establishing the National Policy to Combat Violence Against Women. The legislation, authored by Senator Paulo Paim (PT-RS), aims to integrate and strengthen public services dedicated to supporting women subjected to violence, while providing permanent legal backing to prevention and combat efforts against such violence.

The bill, PL 1.025/2026, seeks to transform an existing administrative public policy into a law, ensuring continuity and stability despite potential political changes. Senator Paim emphasized the enduring severity of violence against women in Brazil, pointing out that femicide and other violent acts remain serious public issues demanding urgent action.

Key features of the policy include the creation of integrated units combining specialized services, deployment of mobile outreach teams in underserved areas, and continuous professional training for those handling violence cases. It also stresses the importance of immediate protective measures and accountability for aggressors to prevent further incidents. Amendments proposed by Senator Damares Alves (Republicanos-DF) introduced stronger emphasis on family and human rights, encouraged comprehensive reporting of all violence forms, and promoted the engagement of civil society and the private sector in prevention efforts.

During a CDH hearing earlier this year, experts called for coordinated interventions involving the state, communities, families, and civil society to effectively address violence against women. To further support informed policymaking, the commission approved Senator Mara Gabrilli’s (PSD-SP) request to hold a public hearing on the 11th National Survey on Violence Against Women — Women with Disabilities 2026, highlighting the intersectional nature of the issue.

The bill now proceeds to the Public Security Commission (CSP) for final analysis. If enacted, it promises to provide Brazil with a legal framework that ensures democratic legitimacy and federative respect while fostering a comprehensive approach to safeguarding women's rights and security nationwide.