Perspectives of the Afro-Brazilian community directly affected by police violence in Brazil

The International Independent Expert Mechanism to Advance Racial Justice and Equality in the Context of Law Enforcement (EMLER) visited Brazil from 27 November to 8 December 2023.

During the 57th session of the Human Rights Council, EMLER will present its highly anticipated Brazil country visit report. The report is expected to offer recommendations to the Brazilian Government regarding combating structural and institutional racism, the excessive use of force, and other human rights violations by law enforcement and the criminal justice system against Africans and people of African descent.

In this context, during this side event, we will hear directly from Black Brazilian women directly affected by police violence. The panelists will talk about their personal experiences with structural racism in Brazil, what is happening more broadly in their region, Black movements and activism in the country in relation to this issue, and the solutions sought by Black communities in Brazil. This event will also explore in depth the expectations following the visit by the UN International Independent Expert Mechanism to Advance Racial Justice and Equality in Law Enforcement (EMLER), the presentation of this mechanism's report, and finally: (1) What can be done at the international level to achieve Black liberation? And (2) What is the perspective and role of EMLER in addressing and eradicating these human rights violations?

Panelists: 

• Ana Paula Oliveira, co-founder Mães de Manguinhos
• Rute Fiuza, coordinator of Mães de Maio in the Northeast of Brazil
• Maria José Menezes, representative of Coalizão Negra por Direitos and co-organiser of EMLER visit to Brazil
• Nayara Khaly Silva Sanfo, UNARC coordinator
• EMLER expert

Moderator: Isis Alves, Advocacy Officer in Geneva, Race and Equality

This event is organised by UNARC, ISHR and Race & Equality.