Reflections on Bahia’s Public Defender’s Office: Two Years of Impact in Improving the Lives of Women and Girls

In December 2022, the Public Defender’s Office of the State of Bahia won the Princess Sabeeka Bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa Global Award for Women’s Empowerment in the public sector category.

The financial resources awarded through the Global Award were invested in a mobile office, a vehicle adapted to reach remote locations. This initiative expanded services for women, especially those in areas far from the headquarters of the Specialized Defender of Human Rights. In addition, the Public Defender’s Office launched a series of initiatives promoting and advocating for gender equality and women’s empowerment. These included:

  • providing legal assistance to detainees,
  • releasing research on imprisoned women in the State of Bahia, and
  • promoting events focused on human rights issues.

One key initiative was the launch of an information booklet developed by the Specialized Defender of Human Rights and its Nucleus for the Defense of Women (Nudem). The booklet provides information on topics such as violence against women and where survivors women can access support services.

Among the most impactful stories is that of MMF, a woman who suffered domestic violence, beaten by her husband in front of her two young daughters. After seeking support from the Public Defender’s Office, MMF was able to break free from the cycle of violence and transform her life. Today, she has obtained her documents, exercises her right to vote, and is a beneficiary of the Bolsa Família Program. Her daughters are enrolled in a new school, and the family now lives in a new neighborhood.

Firmiane Venâncio, previously the Deputy General Public Defender, was elected General Public Defender for the 2023–2025 biennium. With her appointment, women came to occupy nearly three-quarters of the institution’s management positions—demonstrating the organization’s strong commitment to gender equality.

Looking ahead, the Public Defender’s Office plans to further advance women’s empowerment by:

  • developing awareness campaigns on women’s empowerment,
  • promoting women’s rights,
  • strengthening efforts to condemn violence against women, and
  • expanding multidisciplinary services to provide legal assistance and support to survivors.

The Public Defender’s Office of the State of Bahia has made a significant impact on advancing women’s rights in their region. Their experience highlights the power of recognition and the importance of sustained commitment to women’s empowerment. They continue to inspire and pave the way for future initiatives within the women’s rights movement, both locally and globally.