Gender-Based Political Violence in Brazil Surges 11-Fold Ahead of 2026 Elections

Reports of gender-based political violence in Brazil have increased dramatically, rising more than 11 times over the past four years, according to the Superior Electoral Court (TSE). While only 15 cases were recorded in 2022, the number soared to 177 by September 2026. This alarming trend culminated in the TSE issuing its first-ever political ineligibility ruling for such violence against councilman José Sebastião Rabello from Nova Friburgo, who was sanctioned for offensive remarks targeting councilwoman Priscila Teixeira Pitta Muniz.

To tackle this escalating crisis, the TSE and the Federal Public Ministry (MPF) recently launched the awareness campaign "Política é Substantivo Feminino." The initiative aims to inform society about the various forms of political violence women face. Electoral lawyer Isadora Oliveira emphasized that political parties bear significant responsibility beyond opponents' actions. She urged parties to institute independent reporting channels, thorough investigation procedures, and protective mechanisms against retaliation, noting that violence can also originate within party ranks.

The context of this surge highlights stark gender disparities in Brazilian political representation. Brazil ranks 135th out of 184 countries in female participation in the federal parliament, with only 17.5% of deputies being women. Moreover, over 700 municipalities have no elected women, and female mayors constitute merely 16% nationwide.

In an exclusive interview on the MPF’s program "Interesse Público," regional prosecutor Raquel Branquinho underscored the multifaceted violence faced by women in politics and stressed the urgency of combating discrimination as the 2026 elections approach. This program also discussed broader social issues such as efforts to improve sanitary product distribution in the public health system and the protection of historic sites, reflecting MPF’s ongoing engagement with social justice concerns.

As Brazil approaches the 2026 elections, these developments spotlight both the persistent challenges women politicians face and the institutional responses striving to curb gender-based political violence. The recent landmark legal condemnation and public awareness efforts mark critical steps forward in promoting safer, more equitable political participation for women.