WEBINÁRIO INTERINSTITUCIONAL UNIVERSO/UNITRI: 27º SEMANA DA JUSTIÇA PELA PAZ EM CASA
Introduction to the Webinar
Welcome and Acknowledgments
- Professor Cristina opens the webinar, expressing her honor and satisfaction in being present with attendees.
- She acknowledges key figures including magistrates, coordinators, and colleagues involved in organizing the event.
- The webinar is organized by the Law Course Coordination at Universo Goiânia in partnership with various educational and judicial bodies.
Event Guidelines
- Participants are encouraged to interact via chat but must maintain respect for all professionals present; inappropriate messages will not be tolerated.
- A link for attendance confirmation will be shared at the end of the event.
Justice Program Overview
Justice for Peace at Home Initiative
- Dr. Antônia Chaveiro introduces the 27th week of "Justice for Peace at Home," a program aimed at addressing domestic violence.
- The initiative seeks to strengthen enforcement of the Maria da Penha Law and expedite processes related to gender-based violence.
Community Engagement
- The campaign coincides with "August Lilac," focusing on raising awareness about domestic violence against women in Brazil.
- Since its inception in 2016, this collaboration has provided legal assistance and psychological support through community engagement efforts.
Impact of Collaborative Efforts
Changing Perspectives on Domestic Violence
- The program has successfully educated offenders about their actions, leading to behavioral changes among many men regarding domestic abuse.
- This collaborative effort between judiciary members and educational institutions is highlighted as a significant achievement since its start.
Integration into Legal Education
- The topic of domestic violence now forms part of the curriculum in emerging legal themes within law courses, showcasing its importance in legal education.
Guest Speaker Introduction
Dr. Mariana de Queiroz Gomes' Credentials
- Dr. Antônia introduces Dr. Mariana de Queiroz Gomes, highlighting her extensive qualifications and roles within the Tribunal de Justiça do Estado de Goiás.
- Dr. Mariana's contributions include her work on gender equity initiatives and projects aimed at combating domestic violence.
Understanding Domestic Violence Against Women
Introduction to the Topic
- The speaker expresses gratitude for being part of an event alongside colleagues and friends, emphasizing their shared commitment to human rights and equality.
- Acknowledgment is given to Professor Cristina for her continuous support and attention towards the cause.
Engaging the Audience
- The speaker plans to use slides during the presentation due to a tendency to forget key points.
- An interactive question is posed to the audience regarding self-identification as "machista" (sexist), aiming to foster dialogue on gender issues.
Societal Reflection on Machismo
- The difficulty in getting individuals to admit they are machista highlights societal denial about personal biases.
- Statistics reveal a disconnect: 93% of Brazilians recognize living in a machista society, yet only 14% admit personal machismo.
Connection Between Machismo and Violence
- The speaker emphasizes that while many acknowledge societal machismo, few see it within themselves, which complicates discussions on gender violence.
- It is asserted that machismo is deeply intertwined with domestic violence against women; understanding this connection is crucial for addressing gender inequality.
Alarming Statistics on Domestic Violence
- Brazil ranks fifth globally in femicide rates, indicating severe issues surrounding violence against women.
- Domestic violence constitutes the most prevalent crime in Brazil, often occurring within homes rather than public spaces.
Contextualizing Gender-Based Violence
- Most domestic abuse victims suffer at the hands of current or former partners, necessitating legal frameworks like Maria da Penha Law for protection.
- Approximately eight women experience domestic violence every minute in Brazil; this statistic underscores the urgency of addressing these issues.
Scale of Sexual Violence
- Annually, around 250,000 new cases of domestic violence are reported; this figure equates to an entire city's population suffering from such abuse.
- Staggering numbers indicate that approximately 180 rapes occur daily in Brazil, with many involving minors—highlighting a critical area needing attention.
Conclusion: A Call for Awareness and Action
Understanding Domestic Labor and Feminicide
The Economics of Care and Domestic Work
- The discussion highlights the concept of the "economy of care" and domestic work, emphasizing its invisibility in a traditionally machista society.
- Acknowledgment that everyone carries unconscious machista thoughts, with a call for self-improvement to create a better world.
- Reflection on past cultural influences, such as music from the 90s that perpetuated gender roles, illustrating how societal norms shape individual beliefs.
- Recognition of personal growth in understanding one's own machista attitudes and the importance of acknowledging these issues for change.
- Emphasis on observing how women within families speak about each other, pointing out instances of lack of solidarity (sororidade).
The Relevance of Feminicide
- Introduction to feminicide as a crime rooted in hatred rather than love; statistics show that 88.8% of perpetrators are current or former partners.
- Discussion on the increase in domestic violence during the pandemic, supported by reports from various public safety institutions.
- Exploration of potential reasons behind rising violence against women despite increased awareness and reporting to authorities.
- Insight into who commits feminicide—often intimate partners—and where these crimes typically occur: at home.
- Encouragement to critically assess news about missing or deceased women by considering their relationships with men.
Understanding Risk Factors for Violence
- Challenging the notion that homes are safe spaces; data indicates that homes can be dangerous environments for women due to domestic violence.
- Reference to research by the World Health Organization identifying triggers for domestic violence against women, particularly after relationship breakups.
- Importance of recognizing risk factors associated with feminicide when assessing women's safety post-separation from abusive partners.
Understanding Domestic Violence Triggers and Types
Key Triggers of Domestic Violence
- The discussion highlights various triggers for domestic violence, including a partner's previous aggressive actions, threats of suicide, and controlling behaviors such as demanding obedience or restricting personal freedoms.
- Machismo is identified as a root cause of domestic violence, with specific behaviors like checking a partner's phone leading to increased risk of physical abuse.
- Power dynamics are explored, emphasizing that power is not only political but also manifests in personal relationships where one partner imposes control over the other.
The Concept of Power Dynamics
- The speaker distinguishes between macro and micro power dynamics; while macro refers to societal structures, micro pertains to interpersonal relationships within the home.
- Understanding these power dynamics is crucial for recognizing how they contribute to cycles of violence in intimate settings.
Impact on Children and Family Health
- Children exposed to domestic violence are considered secondary victims; they may replicate violent behaviors in adulthood and face mental health issues or educational challenges.
- The collective impact of domestic violence leads to broader family dysfunction and health problems.
Types of Violence Against Women
- There are five recognized types of violence against women: physical, psychological, sexual, patrimonial (economic), and moral. Each type has distinct characteristics that can often go unrecognized by victims.
- Physical violence is easily identifiable through visible injuries; however, psychological abuse can be more insidious yet equally damaging.
Psychological and Economic Abuse
- Psychological abuse includes verbal insults and controlling behavior that restricts social interactions or self-expression.
- Economic abuse occurs when one partner controls financial resources or limits access to money, often seen during separations where one party claims ownership over shared assets.
Promoting Healthy Relationships
- Emphasizing equality in relationships is vital; both partners should share responsibilities without competition or oppression.
- A healthy relationship fosters cooperation rather than dominance from either side.
Understanding the Dynamics of Violence in Relationships
The Beginning of Violence
- Violence often starts subtly, with offensive jokes or comments that may seem harmless but can be deeply uncomfortable and humiliating for the recipient.
- Manipulative behaviors such as blackmail, deceit, and emotional neglect are common early signs of abusive dynamics, often accompanied by excessive jealousy and unwarranted blame directed at women.
Societal Influences on Perception
- Society normalizes jealousy as a form of care, leading individuals to misconstrue controlling behavior as love. This perception is rooted in cultural narratives that need to be challenged.
- The speaker emphasizes that issues surrounding violence are not isolated; they affect all women collectively and require communal awareness and action.
Recognizing Control Tactics
- Controlling behaviors manifest through restrictions on social interactions, where partners may discourage contact with friends under the guise of concern.
- Physical manifestations of control include destruction of personal belongings and physical intimidation, which escalate into more severe forms of abuse like confinement or threats with weapons.
The Cycle of Violence
- The discussion highlights the progression from emotional manipulation to physical violence, culminating in life-threatening situations. It stresses the importance of recognizing these patterns early.
Empathy and Support for Victims
- A call for empathy towards victims is made; it’s crucial to understand that those living in violent environments are suffering and need support rather than dismissal or trivialization.
Introduction to Dr. Vítor Umbelino Soares Júnior
Background Information
- Dr. Vítor Umbelino Soares Júnior has an extensive academic background in law, specializing in criminal sciences and human rights from reputable institutions.
Professional Experience
- His professional journey includes significant roles within domestic violence courts and educational initiatives aimed at raising awareness about women's rights under Brazilian law.
Current Roles
- Currently serving as a judge in special courts focused on domestic violence cases, he also contributes to state-level initiatives addressing women's safety issues.
Acknowledgment from Peers
Discussion on Domestic Violence Against Women
Introduction and Context
- The speaker acknowledges various university campuses across Brazil, emphasizing the importance of discussing sensitive societal issues, particularly domestic violence against women.
- The speaker expresses admiration for Dr. Mariana, highlighting her eloquence and shared commitment to combating domestic violence as public representatives.
Ongoing Struggles Against Gender Inequality
- Emphasizes the continuous fight against machismo, sexism, and gender inequality, specifically focusing on domestic violence against women.
- Acknowledges key figures in the movement against domestic violence in Goiás, crediting Desembargadora Sandra Regina Teodoro Reis for her leadership and contributions.
Legal Framework and Historical Context
- Discusses the establishment of fundamental rights for women through international treaties like the 1979 Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).
- Highlights Brazil's commitment to this treaty as a significant step towards addressing discrimination and promoting gender equality.
Current Challenges in Addressing Violence
- Notes that despite legal frameworks, challenges remain in enforcing these laws effectively within Latin America.
- Points out alarming statistics regarding femicide rates in Brazil, ranking fifth globally for violent deaths of women.
Societal Perceptions and Personal Responsibility
- Discusses societal expectations placed on women and how deviations from these norms can lead to various forms of violence.
Understanding Gender-Based Violence in Brazil
The Illusion of Equality
- The speaker discusses the societal obligations towards marginalized groups, including women and LGBTQ+ individuals, highlighting a disconnect between these obligations and everyday reality.
- Citing philosopher Marilena Chaui, the speaker emphasizes that Brazilian society often hides behind a myth of peacefulness and order, ignoring prevalent discrimination and prejudice.
Legal Framework Against Domestic Violence
- Introduction to women's human rights, referencing international conventions aimed at eliminating gender-based violence.
- Discussion on the Convention of Belém do Pará (1994), recognized as a pivotal international agreement addressing domestic violence against women.
The Maria da Penha Law
- Overview of the Maria da Penha Law (2006), regarded as one of the most advanced legislations globally for combating domestic violence against women.
- Article 226, paragraph 8 of the Brazilian Constitution mandates state mechanisms to eliminate domestic violence.
Case Study: Maria da Penha Maia Fernandes
- Background on Maria da Penha's experience with domestic violence from her ex-partner Marco Antônio Herédia Viveiros, who subjected her to years of abuse without her recognizing herself as a victim.
- Description of two attempted homicides against Maria da Penha by her partner, illustrating severe domestic abuse.
Judicial Challenges and International Advocacy
- Details on the lengthy judicial process faced by Maria da Penha after her partner was initially convicted but later had his sentence annulled.
- After delays in justice, she sought help from the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights due to concerns about potential legal impunity for her abuser.
Findings from International Reports
- The Inter-American Commission concluded that Brazil failed in its duty to protect Maria da Penha and mandated improvements in laws against gender-based violence.
Understanding the Legal Framework Against Domestic Violence in Brazil
The Recognition of Violence Against Women as Human Rights Violations
- The Maria da Penha Law explicitly states that forms of violence against women are considered violations of human rights, challenging the outdated notion that domestic disputes should remain private.
- Brazilian legislation acknowledges that these acts require state intervention, emphasizing the need for a systemic approach to combat domestic and familial violence.
Legislative Support and Cultural Challenges
- The law establishes a comprehensive support system for women victims, from reporting incidents at police stations to engaging with the judiciary for protective measures.
- While the Maria da Penha Law is progressive, it alone cannot resolve deep-rooted cultural issues; it aims to transform societal norms surrounding gender-based violence.
- Acknowledging Brazil's machismo and sexism is crucial in addressing high rates of domestic violence; these cultural traits contribute significantly to ongoing issues.
Long-term Goals and Equality
- There is a vision for future equality where protective laws may become unnecessary, reflecting an ideal society where men and women have equal rights and responsibilities.
- The law seeks to achieve gender equality as stated in Article 5 of the Brazilian Constitution, aiming to eliminate all forms of domestic violence against women.
Importance of Comprehensive Support Systems
- Advocating for this legislation signifies a commitment to fundamental rights and human dignity for women, essential for building a democratic society.
- True democracy requires full legal equality between genders across all sectors—legal, political, religious, economic, and social—to ensure justice and equity.
Training and Preparedness in Response Systems
- Emphasizing proper training for first responders is critical; initial interactions can significantly impact how effectively victims receive help throughout their journey within the judicial system.
- Continuous education programs are necessary across various institutions (police, judiciary), ensuring staff are equipped to handle cases sensitively and appropriately.
Understanding the Cycle of Domestic Violence
The Cycle of Violence
- The speaker introduces the concept of the "cycle of violence," which includes a "honeymoon phase" where everything seems fine, followed by tension buildup and an explosive violent incident.
- Social pressures often compel victims to remain in abusive relationships due to concerns about financial stability, child support, and housing.
- Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety are common among women experiencing domestic violence, necessitating empathy from others.
Legal Aspects of Domestic Violence
- In legal terms, victims can withdraw their complaints (referred to as "representation"), but this is part of the cycle of violence that needs understanding and respect for individual processes.
- Crimes like threats and bodily harm related to domestic violence are classified as public crimes; thus, anyone witnessing such acts can report them regardless of the victim's wishes.
Challenges in Reporting Abuse
- There may be significant delays between reporting incidents and court proceedings, during which victims might reconcile with their abusers.
- Victims often recant their statements or downplay incidents when they return to their abuser, complicating legal processes.
Gender Stereotypes in Domestic Violence Cases
- Gender stereotypes significantly influence perceptions in domestic violence cases; these biases can affect how evidence is interpreted by authorities.
The Importance of Community Awareness
Engaging the Community
- The speaker emphasizes the need for community engagement through discussions on domestic violence across various platforms including educational institutions.
- It’s crucial for individuals to share information about domestic violence prevention within their communities to foster awareness.
Taking Action Against Normalization
- Society must reject the normalization of violence; it should not be seen as a routine occurrence. Instead, there should be active efforts to address it.
Call for Collective Responsibility
- Individuals are encouraged to take action—reporting abuse when witnessed rather than remaining passive observers.
Empathy and Support for Victims
Understanding Victim Experiences
- Acknowledging that many women have been silenced historically highlights the importance of providing support and creating safe spaces for them to express themselves.
Webinar Closing Remarks and Acknowledgments
Summary of the Event
- The speaker expresses gratitude to all participants and hands over the floor to Professor Cristina for closing remarks, indicating this is just the beginning of many more discussions to come.
- The importance of the webinar is highlighted as a significant planning effort initiated by Dr. Mariana, with students actively engaging in questions and discussions.
- There are plans for future webinars featuring other speakers like Dr. V Velino, emphasizing that recorded sessions will be available for students to revisit later.
Importance of Gender Discussions
- The speaker represents the Tribunal de Justiça do Estado de Goiás and acknowledges contributions from various individuals that made the event possible, stressing the need for ongoing conversations about gender issues.
- Reflecting on past societal taboos regarding gender topics, it’s noted that such discussions were absent during their academic years but are now essential for progress.
Educational Impact
- Appreciation is extended towards Faculdade Universo and its faculty for integrating important themes into student education, aiming to cultivate better professionals across various fields.
- The speaker emphasizes that events like these help shape students' understanding of gender perception in their respective disciplines, enhancing their professional capabilities.
Acknowledgments and Gratitude
- Acknowledgment is given to Desembargadora Sandra for initiating impactful discussions; her efforts have found fertile ground among attendees.
- Thanks are expressed towards technical support staff and collaborators who contributed significantly to organizing the event successfully.
- Gratitude extends to various leaders within educational institutions who support initiatives aimed at promoting social awareness through education.
Final Notes
- Participants are reminded about attendance registration details and encouraged to engage with future content available online, reinforcing community involvement in ongoing educational efforts.