Digital and Physical Threats Highlight Growing Violence Against Women in Brazilian Politics

Deputy Gleice from Mato Grosso do Sul has recently been the target of death threats, bringing to light the critical issue of political violence against women in Brazil. During a plenary session, her colleagues expressed strong solidarity with her while emphasizing the urgent need for improved education, clearer protocols, and tougher measures to tackle gender-based violence, including feminicides, in the region.

This incident is part of a broader, troubling pattern of violence faced by women politicians in Brazil, particularly on digital platforms. A recent study conducted by Align and discussed by Anna Spinardi, director of the Data Feminism Program, analyzed 6,000 Telegram messages and interviewed female political leaders. The research revealed that misogyny in Brazilian politics is pervasive across the political spectrum and often intersects with other identities such as race, gender, and age. Women who are Black, Indigenous, or transgender face specific forms of violence.

Spinardi noted that most of the coordinated attacks come from far-right groups, with even women from right-wing parties reporting violence within their own ranks. She criticized political parties for treating violence as an isolated, individual problem rather than a collective issue needing systemic response. The mental and physical health consequences are severe, including deterioration of well-being and the withdrawal of women from political life.

The study underscored the urgent need for legal definitions and regulation of digital platforms to better protect women politicians and safeguard democracy. The threats against Deputy Gleice, combined with the findings on systemic digital misogyny, highlight a critical moment for Brazil, calling for collective political will to confront and reduce violence against women in public office.