CRIMINAL VIOLENCE IN BRAZIL IN RECENT DECADES AND THE INSUFFICIENCY OF LEGAL RESPONSES

Abstract

In the last two decades, Brazil has alternated between cycles of rising and falling lethal violence. Between 2017 and 2023, the country gradually reduced homicides, reaching in 2023 the lowest rate in 11 years; however, the level remains high, with strong regional disparities, increasing femicides, and persistent selectivity and inefficiency in investigations. This article analyzes criminal violence in Brazil over the last ten years, emphasizing statistical trends, the dynamics of organized crime, and a critical assessment of the recent legal framework (especially Law 13,964/2019 – the “Anti-Crime Package” – and the Drug Law 11,343/2006). It argues that isolated legal reforms, if not accompanied by investigative capacity, evidence-based management, and structural social policies, have limited impact on crime reduction. The analysis is supported by official reports (FBSP/Ipea) and national academic literature.