Lula Champions Women’s Political Representation and Social Rights at National Event

On August 29, 2026, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva addressed a landmark gathering of 7,000 women leaders, candidates, and government officials in Belo Horizonte, underscoring the necessity of enhancing women’s roles in Brazil’s political and social spheres. At the National Act Lula with Women, Lula emphasized that despite women constituting the majority of the population, their representation in Congress and federal management remains disproportionately low. He called for achieving at least 50% female participation in federal management positions to ensure democratic inclusiveness.

Lula also highlighted significant policy priorities, notably his administration’s commitment to abolish the 6×1 work schedule—a work regime demanding six consecutive workdays per week—which he considers vital for improving quality of life for all workers while maintaining salary levels. This abolition proposal is expected to be brought to a Senate vote shortly.

Education emerged as another cornerstone of Lula’s agenda; he pledged to revolutionize access to education, particularly through full-time schooling aimed at empowering women and promoting autonomy. He stressed the government’s ongoing efforts to protect women’s rights, citing initiatives like the National Pact Against Femicide designed to reduce violence against women and enhance protective measures.

The event also exposed internal criticism within Lula’s Workers’ Party (PT), where militants in Minas Gerais protested the uneven distribution of campaign resources among female candidates. Despite such tensions, Lula remains optimistic, buoyed by recent polls showing him leading among women voters with 51% support compared to Flávio Bolsonaro’s 38%.

In his heartfelt speech, Lula paid tribute to his mother, Dona Lindu, recognizing her profound influence on his lifelong advocacy for women’s rights. He reinforced that democracy’s strength lies in active participation and the pivotal role women play in shaping Brazil’s future.

This gathering not only reflected Lula’s vision for gender equality but also underscored the government’s dedication to advancing women’s political influence and social welfare as central to its 2026 agenda.