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Transparency International condemns Brazilian government attacks on Transparency International Brazil

Transparency International is extremely concerned that its Brazilian chapter is facing an escalation in harassment from elements within the Brazilian government, following the latest in a series of attempts to delegitimise its work through unfounded claims and politically motivated statements.

These come despite the fact that the current federal government has repeatedly emphasised the essential role that civil society organisations play in informing policy and decision-making, as part of a system of democratic governance, accountability, and the prevention of corruption, particularly in large-scale public investment programmes.

Transparency International Brazil has played an important role in national policy discussions and oversight, including through its participation in government initiatives. Its work has consistently aimed to support public institutions by identifying risks, strengthening safeguards, and contributing evidence-based recommendations to protect public resources.

François Valérian, Chair of Transparency International, said:

“Transparency International stands firmly with its Brazilian chapter. Civil society organisations must be able to play their vital democratic role of independent analysis and expression of critical views without fear of retaliation, harassment, or criminalisation. We are asking the Brazilian government to cease harassment of our colleagues, in line with its stated commitment to respect civil society.”

Transparency International is calling on the Brazilian government to clarify its public statements, refrain from unfounded allegations, and reaffirm its commitment to protecting civic space and independent oversight.

Notes to editors

  • Transparency International Chair, François Valérian, has written to Chief of Staff of the Presidency Rui Costa and other senior members of the Brazilian government following last week’s public claims that Transparency International Brazil is under investigation by the Federal Police. As outlined in the letter, there is no public record of such an investigation, and Transparency International Brazil has not been formally notified nor received any official documentation. This raises serious concerns about the basis for the Ministry’s statement and whether confidential information is being improperly cited for political purposes. Letter from Transparency International PAC
  • Earlier in October, Transparency International issued a statement responding to renewed attacks on Transparency International Brazil, after senior judicial figures publicly repeated unfounded allegations regarding its funding and activities. The organisation warned of sustained efforts to discredit and intimidate its Brazilian chapter.

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