Gilmar Mendes Calls for Balanced Security Policy Amid Police Violence Debate in Brazil
Supreme Court minister Gilmar Mendes stresses balanced security policies to prevent police abuses in Rio's favelas, while a separate inquiry involving Bolsonaro family members raises political tensions.
- • Gilmar Mendes advocates balanced security policy to reduce police lethality in favelas.
- • STF mandates a plan to reclaim territories dominated by criminal groups with essential public services.
- • Police operations must follow strict parameters to minimize civilian deaths and ensure transparency.
- • Inquiry involves Bolsonaro family over alleged coercion against STF, with defense arguing confusion over political expression and coercion.
Key details
The debate over Brazil's security policies and police violence intensified following a major police operation in Rio de Janeiro, with Supreme Federal Court (STF) Minister Gilmar Mendes advocating for a balanced approach that combats organized crime while curbing police lethality. Mendes emphasized the need for rigorous protocols to prevent and hold police abuses accountable, under institutional oversight, aiming to avoid turning favelas into war zones. He recalled an April 2025 STF ruling mandating the state to devise a comprehensive plan to reclaim territories controlled by criminal factions, including restoring essential public services like education and health to affected communities. Mendes criticized the current operations as "partial" and "unsustainable" without such structured plans.
The STF clarified in the ruling on ADPF das Favelas (Fundamental Precept Violation No. 635) that police operations are not prohibited but must be planned with proportionality, transparency, and measures to minimize civilian casualties. Initiated by the Socialist Party (PSB) in 2019, the ADPF aims to address police violence in Rio's favelas and foster consensus on transparent security measures.
In a related political development, an inquiry was launched involving Jair Bolsonaro and his family members over alleged coercion against the Supreme Court related to attempts to absolve Bolsonaro. Although Bolsonaro was removed from the inquiry and remains under house arrest, his son Eduardo Bolsonaro in the United States faced challenges in defending against the charges. His public defender argued that the accusations confuse political expression, protected by parliamentary immunity, with coercive actions, as no actual threats or violence occurred.
Additionally, Maria Elizabeth Rocha, president of the Superior Military Court (STM), issued a controversial apology for historical injustices, causing dissent among tribunal members. President Lula's focus on environmental issues has also drawn criticism amid escalating crime and violence throughout Brazil, especially in regions like the Amazon.
These events highlight the complex judicial and political landscape surrounding security policy, police violence, and governance challenges in Brazil during late 2025.