Brazil weighs AI monitoring of domestic violence offenders, raising privacy and governance concerns

Brazil's Federal Senate is debating legislation that would introduce artificial intelligence into the enforcement of domestic violence protective orders. 

Bill No. 750/2026, introduced by Sen. Eduardo Braga and currently before Brazil's Chamber of Deputies, would establish the National Program for Monitoring Aggressors Using Artificial Intelligence, combining electronic monitoring devices, behavioral analytics and real-time alerts to authorities. The proposal aims to prevent domestic violence, "ensuring the effectiveness of emergency protective measures" and "expanding the protection of victims through the use of digital technologies and artificial intelligence." 

The initiative emerges at a time when governments worldwide are debating how AI should be used in public safety contexts. From predictive policing initiatives to algorithmic risk assessment tools in criminal justice systems, policymakers are increasingly exploring AI technologies to anticipate threats and improve enforcement. At the same time, these initiatives raise complex questions about proportionality, transparency and the protection of fundamental rights.

Brazil's proposal illustrates both the potential benefits and governance challenges of AI-driven public policy.

Domestic violence remains a serious and persistent issue in Brazil. Each year, courts issue hundreds of thousands of protective measures under the Maria da Penha Law, the country's primary legal framework addressing violence against women. These orders typically prohibit aggressors from approaching victims or specific locations.

In practice, however, enforcing these measures can be difficult. Violations often become known only after victims report them and response times may vary depending on local law enforcement capacity.

How it would work 

The proposed monitoring program under Bill No. 750/2026 seeks to address this gap by combining electronic monitoring technologies with AI systems capable of identifying violations in real time.