Brazil’s Femicide Crisis: A Decade of Progress, a Rising Tide of Violence
Brazil is grappling with a deeply concerning surge in femicides – the intentional killing of women because of their gender. Recent data reveals a harrowing reality: at least four women were murdered daily in Brazil last year, marking the highest recorded number in a decade. Even as Brazil criminalized femicide in 2015, the numbers continue to climb, with 1,470 women and girls killed in 2025 alone.
The Legal Framework and Its Limitations
The introduction of specific legislation addressing femicide in 2015 was a landmark moment. Prior to this, the murder of a woman was often categorized as manslaughter or homicide, obscuring the gender-based motivation. Since the law’s enactment, 13,448 victims have been recorded. However, campaigners warn that official figures likely underestimate the true scale of the problem.
A Culture of Violence: Root Causes and Contributing Factors
The escalating rates of femicide are symptomatic of a broader culture of inequality, domination, and “machismo” prevalent in Brazil. Church leaders, like Revd Elineide Oliveira of the Episcopal Anglican Church of Brazil, emphasize that this violence has become normalized. Revd Dr Mauro de Souza of the Evangelical Church of Lutheran Confession in Brazil, describes femicide as a “brutal attack on the gift of life granted by God.”
Beyond societal norms, economic factors and limited access to support services contribute to the vulnerability of women. Many femicides occur at home, perpetrated by current or former partners, highlighting the need for comprehensive interventions addressing domestic violence.
The Church’s Response and Calls for Action
Brazilian churches are increasingly vocal in condemning the violence and advocating for change. Leaders are calling for strengthened networks of support for women experiencing violence, emphasizing the importance of churches as safe spaces for listening and pastoral care. There’s a growing push for educational programs promoting egalitarian relationships and challenging harmful interpretations of religious texts that may perpetuate gender inequality.
In December, thousands of women took to the streets across Brazil to protest the alarming rates of femicide, murder, and misogyny, demonstrating a growing public demand for action.
Beyond Femicide: The Broader Picture of Gender-Based Violence
Femicide represents the most extreme manifestation of gender-based violence in Brazil. A 2025 report by the Brazilian Forum on Public Safety revealed that more than one in three women experienced some form of sexual or gender-based violence in the past year – the highest number recorded since 2017. This underscores the pervasive nature of the problem and the urgent need for preventative measures.
Future Trends and Potential Interventions
Several factors suggest the current trajectory of femicide could worsen without significant intervention. These include potential economic instability, which can exacerbate existing inequalities, and political shifts that may weaken protections for women. However, increased awareness, coupled with targeted interventions, offers a path toward positive change.
Key areas for future focus include:
- Strengthening Law Enforcement: Improving investigations and prosecutions of femicide cases.
- Expanding Support Services: Increasing access to shelters, counseling, and legal aid for women experiencing violence.
- Promoting Gender Equality: Implementing educational programs and policies that challenge harmful gender stereotypes and promote equal opportunities.
- Community-Based Prevention Programs: Engaging communities in efforts to prevent violence and support victims.
FAQ
What is femicide? Femicide is the intentional killing of women because of their gender.
When did Brazil criminalize femicide? Brazil criminalized femicide in 2015.
How many femicides occurred in Brazil in 2025? 1,470 women and girls were killed in 2025.
Is the official data accurate? Campaigners believe the official figures likely underestimate the true scale of the problem.
Did you grasp? The Church Times reports that each femicide is considered an affront to the sacredness of life and an open wound in the body of Christ.
Pro Tip: If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, reach out for help. Resources are available, and you are not alone.
Learn more about gender-based violence and how to support victims by exploring resources from the World Council of Churches and the Americas Quarterly.
What are your thoughts on this critical issue? Share your comments below and let’s continue the conversation.
