The Brazilian government, led by Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, formalized a national protocol this Tuesday for investigating crimes against journalists and communicators, a step considered unprecedented in the country and aimed at strengthening the protection of press freedom and democracy. The document was signed by the Ministry of Justice and Public Security during an event held at the Palácio do Planalto in Brasília, the seat of the Executive Branch, on the occasion of Journalist's Day, celebrated on April 7 in this South American nation. The new protocol establishes guidelines for the prevention, investigation, and punishment of crimes committed against communication professionals, in addition to guaranteeing immediate protection measures for victims and their families. Minister of Justice and Public Security Wellington César stated that the initiative seeks to recognize the severity of violence against journalists and its impact on the democratic system. It also includes specific procedures for complex cases, such as disappearances. According to Reporters Without Borders, Brazil ranks 63rd out of 180 countries in the 2025 Press Freedom Index, in a context marked by persistent challenges related to the safety of journalists. During the event, the government also announced the launch of the Dom Phillips and Bruno Pereira Journalism and Communication Contest, aimed at encouraging productions focused on the environment, indigenous peoples, and traditional communities. "Protecting those who inform is, ultimately, protecting the heart of democracy," it was stated. According to the Argentine News agency, the regulation is structured around four main axes: the immediate protection of victims, the improvement of investigation processes, the production and preservation of evidence, and specialized care for those affected.
