Protection and justice

Challenges and progress of the Maria da Penha Law

Abstract

Domestic violence is a structural problem in Brazil, rooted in patriarchal norms and often treated as a private matter, without due recognition as a violation of human rights. This article addresses the Maria da Penha Law (Law No. 11,340/2006), analyzing its advances and challenges in protecting women victims of domestic violence. The objective is to evaluate the achievements of the legislation and the challenges still present in its implementation, proposing measures to improve its effectiveness. The research, of a qualitative and bibliographic nature, reveals that, despite legal innovations, such as urgent protective measures, classification of various forms of violence and strengthening of specialized courts, the implementation of the Maria da Penha Law faces significant challenges. Among these, the lack of infrastructure, cultural resistance, underreporting of cases and recurrence of violence stand out. The conclusion points to the need to improve the implementation of the law, with a focus on expanding specialized police stations and courts, ongoing training of professionals in the justice system and public security, and financial autonomy policies for victims, aiming at more effective protection and accountability of aggressors.