On Tuesday, October 24, the Brazilian Senate approved a provisional measure that transformed the National Data Protection Authority (ANPD) into a regulatory agency. This change aims to enhance the authority's ability to create and enforce regulations regarding the Digital Statute for Children and Adolescents, also known as ECA Digital. The establishment of this agency will help to protect children online by ensuring that internet regulations nurture safe environments for minors. The regulatory agency will now have the responsibility to develop rules and monitor compliance with these regulations, thus improving child safety in the digital realm.

The ANPD was initially created in 2019 to implement the General Data Protection Law (LGPD) and has since undergone administrative changes, including its recent move from the Presidency to the Ministry of Justice in 2023. This transformation to an agency allows the ANPD more autonomy in deciding on policies, separate from direct government ministry oversight. Although agencies like this function under the ministry’s guidance, they have the independence to operate without hierarchical subordination.

This development is significant as it reflects Brazil’s commitment to enhancing data protection for children and promoting responsible internet use. The decision now awaits the approval of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva for final sanction. The establishment of such an agency is vital not only for compliance with local laws but also signifies Brazil’s alignment with international standards regarding children's digital rights.