The TSE has approved a resolution that allows public campaign funding for security against political violence towards women but excludes these expenses from the calculation of the mandatory 30% female candidacy funding.
On October 26, the Brazilian Superior Electoral Court (TSE) adopted a new resolution allowing the use of public campaign financing for expenses related to combating political violence against women, including hiring security professionals. This decision comes in response to increasing concerns about the safety of female candidates in the political realm. However, it was also determined that these security expenses would not count toward the 30% minimum quota of electoral fund resources designated for female candidates.
This adjustment diverges from the earlier draft resolution proposed in January, which had included potential security costs as qualifying expenses for the women's quota. Critics, including experts and organizations advocating for gender equality in politics, voiced concerns that without these exclusions, political parties could exploit security expenses to artificially meet the mandated female candidate funding percentage, thereby diluting the intent of the quota system designed to empower women in politics.
Ultimately, while the resolution recognizes the importance of addressing political violence against women and allows for necessary funding for security measures, the decision to exclude these costs from the female quota calculation seeks to prevent the misuse of funds and ensure genuine support for female representation in Brazilian politics. This development reflects ongoing tensions within the electoral system aimed at promoting equality while safeguarding candidates against violence.
