Protective measures: understand how aggressors are monitored in real-time and how the 'panic button' works
In Pernambuco, over 26,000 protective measures were approved in 2025 to assist women facing domestic violence through monitoring of aggressors and the use of emergency interventions.
In Pernambuco, Brazil, a significant initiative has been introduced to support women subjected to domestic violence. In 2025 alone, the judiciary approved more than 26,000 protective measures aimed at safeguarding these women from their aggressors. The protective measures include various forms of intervention, such as restraining orders which limit the aggressor's contact with the victim, as well as the imposition of electronic monitoring devices. Women can request these protective measures directly at the Judiciary of Pernambuco or through local police stations, ensuring accessibility to help for those in dire situations. To enhance the safety of the victims, the Military Police (PM) of Pernambuco established the 'Patrulha Maria da Penha', which involves periodic visits to women who have sought protection. This program is part of a broader initiative, aired by TV Globo in a special series called "Marcas," which aims to raise awareness about gender violence, particularly during the week of International Women's Day. Lieutenant Colonel Jéssika Moreira emphasizes the importance of these follow-up visits to provide continued support to the victims, demonstrating a proactive approach to building resilience within this vulnerable group. The Centro de Monitoramento de Pessoas (Cemep) plays a crucial role in this protective framework, monitoring the electronic bracelets worn by aggressors to ensure compliance with the court’s orders. The integrated system allows for real-time tracking of abusers, substantially increasing the safety of the victims by ensuring immediate law enforcement response if those restrictions are violated. This initiative not only seeks to protect the victims but also to deter potential aggressors through the visibility of monitoring, aiming to create a safer environment for women in Pernambuco.