Thousands Rally Across Brazil to Protest Rising Feminicide Rates in 2025

On December 7, 2025, thousands of Brazilians took to the streets in a nationwide protest against the alarming rise in feminicide across the country. The movement, spearheaded by the activist group 'Levante Mulheres Vivas,' saw demonstrations in over 20 states and the Federal District, with participants demanding systemic change and better protection for women.

In São Paulo, where feminicide rates have reached historic levels with 53 confirmed cases this year, activists highlighted the urgency of the crisis. Data from Instituto Sou da Paz reveals that one in four feminicides in São Paulo state occurred in the capital city, marking a 23% increase from 2024 and a 71% rise compared to 2023. These crimes predominantly take place in domestic settings and are commonly perpetrated using knives or blunt objects.

The protest in São Paulo was marked by poignant speeches, including from Lívia La Gatto, who extended her gratitude to supportive men, and Priscila Magrin, who shared a moving tribute to her 15-year-old daughter Nicolly, a victim of feminicide. In Rio de Janeiro, demonstrations unfolded in Copacabana, drawing attention to the 79 feminicide cases and 242 attempts reported in the city so far this year.

Despite adverse weather, thousands gathered in the Federal District, including officials such as government ministers and the first lady, to voice their condemnation of state neglect in addressing violence against women. Activists underscored the role of entrenched patriarchy as a root cause of the ongoing violence and called for comprehensive reforms.

The protests across Brazil also served to honor victims and strengthen calls for public policies that effectively combat feminicide and protect women from violence. The national outcry highlights the critical need for governmental accountability and societal transformation to reverse these tragic trends.