The Brazilian Chamber of Deputies has recently approved a significant piece of legislation known as the anti-faction project, which aims to intensify penalties for individuals involved in militias and criminal organizations. Sponsored by the Minister of Justice in October 2025, the bill underwent modifications in the Chamber before being sent to the Senate, where the government managed to restore some of its original provisions. Ultimately, the Chamber returned to a version closely resembling their earlier approval, suggesting robust support for the legislation from a majority of deputies.

The new law introduces a distinct legal category known as 'structured social domination,' specifically addressing crimes linked to ultra-violent organizations, private militias, and paramilitary groups. Under this new classification, offenders could face imprisonment ranging from 20 to 40 years, marking a dramatic escalation in the legal repercussions for such criminal affiliations. The swift passage of this bill in a symbolic vote indicates a significant political priority for the current government to tackle organized crime in Brazil.

The reaction from the opposition has been largely positive, highlighting a collective recognition of the dire situation regarding crime in Brazil, particularly in urban areas plagued by organized criminal groups. This legislative action reflects ongoing concerns among Brazilian citizens regarding public safety and the government’s commitment to combatting the influence and power of criminal organizations. As the bill is now set to receive presidential sanction, its effective implementation may alter the landscape of law enforcement and judicial responses to organized crime across the country.