Less than half of women's police stations in PE operate 24 hours: 'Failure of public policy', says lawyer
In Pernambuco, Brazil, only seven out of fifteen women's police stations operate 24 hours a day, despite a federal law requiring continuous operation to assist victims of violence.
In Pernambuco, Brazil, only seven of the fifteen women's specialized police stations are available 24 hours a day, which raises serious concerns about the support provided to victims of violence against women. A federal law enacted in 2023 mandates that these facilities operate continuously and provide services in private spaces with trained professionals. However, the lack of compliance with this law highlights a significant failure of public policy in addressing violence against women in the state.
Lawyer Fabiana Leite emphasized that the limited hours of operation at these police stations severely hinder the ability of victims to receive the help they need. She stated that the permanent operation of these stations should be among the top priorities for the government, as fulfilling the legal requirements is essential for their effectiveness. Leite argues that providing constant access to these services is crucial in ensuring the safety and support of individuals facing such critical situations.
In the capital, Recife, the Women’s Police Station has been temporarily relocated to the Rosarinho neighborhood while renovations are ongoing at its main office in Santo Amaro since November 2024. These renovations, originally expected to be completed by April 2025, continue to delay services, leaving victims in a vulnerable position and exemplifying the ongoing challenges faced by public safety initiatives concerning women's rights in Pernambuco.