The Brazilian government, led by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, is set to roll out new police guidelines nationwide to decrease police violence and protect civil liberties. These rules, developed by the Ministry of Justice, cover police interactions, weapon use, and handcuffing procedures.
Law enforcement agencies across Brazil, including military police, civil police, and municipal guards, will be required to adhere to these directives. The proposed guidelines emphasize using firearms as a last resort and justifying exceptional use of handcuffs in writing.
The government’s goal is to reduce police-related deaths in Brazil, which reached an average of 17 fatalities per day in 2023, totaling 6,393 deaths from police interventions. A working group involving various agencies collaborated on drafting the initial version of the guidelines to create clear protocols for law enforcement.
Controversy Surrounding the Guidelines
Despite opposition from some politicians who view them as unnecessary, supporters believe the directives will benefit both officers and civilians by enhancing communication between police and the public. Failure to comply with the new rules may lead to states losing funding for special equipment.
The guidelines also address police stops, home searches, and the need for consent during warrantless searches, aiming to protect fundamental rights and ensure transparency. The Ministry of Justice plans to release a draft of the new ordinance for public feedback to further enhance police training and reduce inappropriate use of force for a safer Brazil.