On Friday, in João Pessoa, Paraíba, the first group of the project 'Defensoras Populares' was launched, aimed at training women in vulnerable situations to recognize and combat different forms of violence, including physical, psychological, patrimonial, and sexual violence. The program focuses on enhancing community leadership and increasing access to justice for women, enabling them to guide others on how to seek help and connect those in need with legal services.

This initiative is a collaboration between the National Secretariat for Access to Justice, part of the Ministry of Justice and Public Security, and Fiocruz, underscoring Brazil's commitment to addressing human rights and gender violence. The project is not only pivotal for the women involved but is also strategically integrated into broader national frameworks aimed at combating femicide and promoting preventative measures against gender-based violence.

By 2026, the program will expand to Bahia, Minas Gerais, Rio Grande do Norte, and São Paulo, indicating its national significance and potential impact across diverse regions in Brazil. This initiative could serve as a model for similar programs worldwide, highlighting the importance of community-led efforts in preventing violence against women and enhancing legal literacy among marginalized groups.