Brazilian lawmakers have approved a measure that significantly limits abortion access for underage victims of sexual violence. The vote, which took place after less than two minutes of debate, moves to dismantle a prior resolution from the National Council for the Rights of Children and Adolescents that mandated prioritizing the interests of victims.
Historic Defeat for Child Protection
The state body described the decision as a "historic defeat in the comprehensive protection of girls and adolescents in Brazil," calling it a "serious setback." Under the overturned regulation, minors who disagreed with their parents or guardians about their pregnancy could obtain free legal assistance to safeguard their rights, including access to abortion.
Political Reactions
Right-wing Senator Damares Alves argued that the regulation "disregards the role and strips away the authority of parents and guardians to decide on the care of girls and adolescents in situations of sexual violence." Brazil's penal code currently punishes abortions with up to four years in prison, with exceptions for rape, risk of death to the mother, or severe fetal brain malformation.
Next Steps
According to AFP, both the Senate and Chamber of Deputies have approved the change. However, it still faces one final hurdle: gaining approval from allies of far-right former President Jair Bolsonaro before it can clear Congress.
