Brazil marks two decades of landmark domestic violence law
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Brazilian feminists and activists commemorated the 20th anniversary of the Maria da Penha Law, a law addressing domestic and family violence, reflecting on four decades of feminist struggle.
The law stemmed from years of activism, beginning with movements during Brazil’s redemocratization and extending to international human rights efforts.
Women like Leila Linhares Barsted, Carmen Hein de Campos, Silvia Pimentel, and Iáris Cortês, who formed the Consórcio Lei Maria da Penha, worked to move domestic violence cases away from being treated as minor offenses. The event, held at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, brought together researchers, justice professionals, and social movements to discuss progress and challenges in combating violence against women.
Speakers highlighted the importance of recognizing the law as a product of collective effort, not a spontaneous event, and emphasized the need to continue fighting for cultural change alongside legal advancements. Several participants pointed out limitations in the current system, including a reliance on the judicial system and a lack of preventative measures. They advocated for strengthening support networks, investing in education, and addressing the economic and social vulnerabilities that contribute to violence.
They also stressed the need to hold men accountable for their actions, not just through punishment but also through psychological work and education about healthy masculinity. Maria da Penha, the namesake of the law, sent a message urging continued collaboration to ensure the law’s full potential is realized and that no woman is left behind.
