NCJ Number
138057
Date Published
1992
Length
10 pages
Annotation
Violence against children and adolescents in Brazil stems from the neglect of the basic needs of the child and youth populations. This neglect is one result of the rapid transformation of Brazil from a primary economy to one based on industry and services, as well as the mass migration from rural areas to the cities.
Abstract
As the rural migrants lost their traditions, cultural traits, and standards of knowledge and lacked adequate public services, violence became a norm. Families who were not properly integrated into the urban setting often left their children exposed to structural violence at the hands of exploitative elements and gangs. A system of "child extermination" emerged, in which adolescents were murdered by people outside the family who were attempting to impose "order" outside of the law. This report discusses in greater detail structural violence, personal violence, the culture of violence, and victims of violence. The Brazilian Government is urged to implement the Child and Adolescent Statute passed by the National Congress, establish the regular provision of services for children and adolescents, develop a policy of public security and justice, and institute strong measures against the extermination system. 8 notes