Over Half of Brazilian Women Report Experiencing Violence in Relationships, Study Finds
A recent survey reveals that 54% of Brazilian women who have been in relationships with men report experiencing some form of violence, while only 11% of men admit to committing aggression against a partner or ex-partner. The "20 Years of the Maria da Penha Law" study, conducted by Instituto Patrícia Galvão and Instituto Locomotiva, indicates that approximately 30 million women have been victims of violence from a partner or ex-partner, a figure rising to nearly 48 million when specific violent situations are considered. Key barriers to addressing violence against women include fear of reporting due to reprisals or lack of protection (68%), the perceived impunity of aggressors (56%), and the slowness of the justice system (39%).
The research, which surveyed 1,500 individuals aged 16 and above across Brazil from April 22-30, 2026, with a margin of error of 2.8 percentage points, aims to assess the impact and challenges of the Maria da Penha Law after two decades. Psychological violence is the most reported form, affecting 42% of women, followed by physical violence (25%), moral violence (19%), sexual violence (10%), and patrimonial violence (9%). When witnessing aggression, 70% of women would call the police, compared to 56% of men, while a significant minority of men (15%) would intervene directly, even with force, versus 7% of women. The study also highlights that while the Maria da Penha Law is recognized for protecting women and holding aggressors accountable, 67% believe it only partially protects women, and 80% feel it does not yet function in practice as intended.
This research underscores the persistent and pervasive nature of gender-based violence in Brazil, despite significant legal frameworks like the Maria da Penha Law. The stark disparity between reported victimisation and male admission of perpetration suggests a critical gap in societal accountability and awareness. While the law has raised consciousness and provided recourse, its partial effectiveness indicates systemic challenges. These include deeply ingrained cultural norms that may normalize or minimize violence, coupled with practical impediments such as fear of retaliation and a perceived slow or ineffective justice system. Future efforts must focus not only on legal enforcement but also on robust cultural transformation, enhanced victim support services, and male engagement to foster a more equitable and safer society.
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