The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF), the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and UN Women have issued a statement expressing deep concern regarding the decision made by the Court of Justice of Minas Gerais (TJMG) to acquit a 35-year-old man accused of raping a 12-year-old girl. The note underscores the violation of Brazilian law, specifically the Child and Adolescent Statute (ECA), which categorically states that any sexual relations with individuals under the age of 14 are considered rape of a vulnerable person, regardless of family approval or alleged consent.

In their statement, the agencies reiterate that the ECA, the Federal Constitution, and Brazil's international commitments clearly safeguard the rights of children and adolescents. They emphasize that children under the age of 14 do not possess the cognitive development necessary to give consent and that there are unequivocal legal protections against such offenses in Brazil. The acquittal not only undermines these laws but also sends a troubling message regarding the treatment of sexual violence cases involving minors.

The implications of this ruling are significant, as it raises concerns about the protection of children in Brazil and the justice system's commitment to uphold their rights. By failing to hold perpetrators accountable, such decisions may discourage victims from coming forward and seeking justice, further exacerbating the prevalence of sexual violence against minors in the country. This situation has prompted urgent calls for reform in the legal system to ensure adequate protection and swift justice for the most vulnerable populations.