Brazil’s Supreme Court Expands Women’s Protection Law
In a landmark decision, Brazil’s Supreme Court has unanimously voted to broaden the application of the country’s notable legislation aimed at safeguarding women from violence. The ruling, made on Wednesday, extends the Maria da Penha law beyond domestic settings to encompass public spaces. This change permits legal action against perpetrators even in the absence of familial or emotional ties with the victim.
The court’s decision allows the application of the law to cases involving stalking, threats, and harassment that occur outside of the home. Previously, like similar laws in countries such as the United States, the legislation was restricted to domestic incidents.
According to Brazil’s government, nearly 340,000 urgent protective measures for women were issued in the first half of 2026 through the mechanisms provided by the Maria da Penha law. This figure represents a significant increase of 170% compared to the same timeframe in 2020.
Justice Carmen Lúcia, the sole female justice present during the ruling, highlighted the persistent growth of violence against women in Brazil, despite the enactment of the law in 2006. She emphasized the need for updating the legislation, citing that many femicides occur outside of domestic settings and are often dismissed by authorities.
Justice Lúcia remarked, “In real life, judges reject (accusations against men) without justification, they say it is not urgent, they leave it for next Monday. Meanwhile, one of us dies.” She added that the Supreme Court’s decision demonstrates its awareness and responsiveness to the violence faced by women in Brazil.
