From symbolic recognition to life-saving policies, Brazil continues its complex journey toward gender equality.
In May 2017, then-President Michel Temer signed a series of symbolic and practical laws aimed at improving the lives of Brazilian women. Among them:
- Zuzu Angel Becomes a National Heroine: The legendary fashion designer and activist Zuleika Angel Jones, known as Zuzu Angel, was inscribed in Brazil’s Livro dos Heróis e Heroínas da Pátria (Book of Heroes and Heroines of the Motherland). Her legacy—marked by creativity and resistance during Brazil’s military dictatorship—continues to inspire generations.
- Ban on Shackling Pregnant Women: A crucial change to Brazil’s Penal Code prohibits the use of shackles on pregnant women during labor and in the postpartum period—a practice that was previously denounced by human rights organizations.
- National Breastfeeding Month: August was officially designated as Mês Nacional do Aleitamento Materno, reinforcing public health awareness and the importance of breastfeeding.
- Expanded Rights for Nursing Mothers: Amendments to the Child and Adolescent Statute (ECA) now guarantee women the right to receive follow-up and medical guidance on breastfeeding.
- National Week of No Violence Against Women: Established in November, this week is now recognized as a time for public awareness campaigns, policy discussions, and support for survivors of domestic violence.
2025 Update: What’s Changed and What Hasn’t?
Violence Against Women Remains a National Crisis
Despite legal advancements, Brazil remains one of the most dangerous countries in Latin America for women. According to the 2024 Atlas da Violência, one woman is killed every 1 hour and 45 minutes, and most of these femicides occur in domestic settings.
The Northeast region, especially states like Rio Grande do Norte, Bahia, and Pernambuco, continues to see rising numbers in gender-based violence, aggravated by:
- Poor public safety infrastructure
- Underfunded shelters
- Inadequate police training
- Low prosecution rates for abusers
Even with robust legislation like the Lei Maria da Penha and Lei do Feminicídio, enforcement remains inconsistent, particularly in rural and marginalized communities.
Rising Female Leadership in 2025
However, not all is bleak. Women in Brazil have made significant strides in other areas:
- More women in politics: A record number of women were elected to federal and state positions in the 2022 and 2024 elections, including Afro-Brazilian and Indigenous women, thanks in part to affirmative political action policies.
- Workplace inclusion: Corporations and startups are increasingly adopting gender equity policies, and tech sectors have seen a 28% increase in female professionals since 2021.
- Grassroots activism: Community-led initiatives and NGOs have filled the gap left by the government, especially in favelas and underserved areas.
The Path Forward
Women in Brazil are not waiting for the system to catch up—they are leading change from the ground up. From local collectives to national policy advocacy, Brazilian women are pushing back against systemic violence and inequality. These warriors and activists are reshaping the country, one law, one voice, one life at a time.
FAQ
What is the National Week of No Violence Against Women in Brazil?
A: It’s a government-recognized awareness campaign held every November to combat domestic and gender-based violence through education, advocacy, and public policy.
Who was Zuzu Angel and why is she a national heroine?
A: Zuzu Angel was a pioneering fashion designer and human rights activist who resisted Brazil’s dictatorship after her son’s disappearance. She was declared a national heroine in 2017.
Is violence against women still a major issue in Brazil in 2025?
A: Yes. Despite new laws, Brazil continues to struggle with high rates of femicide, especially in the Northeast, due to poor law enforcement and limited protective resources.
What rights do breastfeeding mothers have in Brazil today?
A: Mothers are legally entitled to medical follow-up, guidance, and public health support through initiatives like National Breastfeeding Month and ECA amendments.
