25/02/2026
In Brazil, congresswoman Júlia Zanatta introduced Bill 5,128 of 2025, which proposes penalties of up to eight years in prison for individuals who make false reports under the Maria da Penha Law. The bill specifies that if an accusation is proven to be intentionally false, the case would be referred to the Public Prosecutor's Office for slanderous accusation. Additionally, individuals found making false claims could face civil lawsuits for damages, particularly if it is shown that they sought financial gain or advantages in child custody disputes. Zanatta has emphasized that the proposed measure aims to protect genuine victims of domestic violence and maintain the credibility of the legal system. While the bill applies broadly and is not exclusively directed at women, the discussion surrounding it is especially relevant because most reports under the Maria da Penha Law involve domestic violence cases, where complainants are predominantly women. It is important to note that the bill has not yet been approved and remains under legislative consideration.
