The Status of Women: Brazil

Abstract

In spite of being the numerical majority in the country, for centuries women have occupied a subordinate position in Brazilian society. In recent years, the country has elected (and reelected) its first female president. However, despite all the advances, many of women’s fundamental rights are still disregarded. Women receive lower remuneration than men do, even when they hold the same work positions and perform similar activities. Black women face a far more extreme situation and are exposed to the worst conditions in the country’s labor market due to double discrimination. Violence against women is considered a social and health problem. The main context of violence against women is familial/domestic, where their partners perpetrate psychological, physical, and sexual abuse. The situation of women’s rights is far from ideal but the changes occurring for Brazilian women over recent decades in education, work, and social and political participation have been positive and increased rights guaranteed to women. Nevertheless, advances are still needed, especially in political participation, for women to occupy more space where decisions are made and to seek even more improvements for their lives and rights.