What Is PEC 18/2025?

First, let’s clarify what the amendment proposes. Developed by the Ministry of Justice, PEC 18/2025 seeks to reshape Brazil’s public safety model with major changes to how police forces are structured and managed.

Right now, Brazil uses a federal system for public safety. Each state runs its own military and civil police forces, while the federal government oversees the Federal Police and Federal Highway Police. This creates a clear division of responsibilities between different levels of government.

The Background of the Proposal

The PEC comes at a time of heated national discussion about public safety. Recent police operations in Rio de Janeiro made headlines and reignited debates about how to tackle crime. In response, the federal government introduced this bill to address the challenges in the field.

Key Points of PEC 18/2025

1. Creating a National Public Safety System

The proposal would establish an integrated National Public Safety System. Under this model, the federal government would have greater coordination over state police forces. Key strategic decisions would involve stronger input from the central government.

A national council with representatives from every state would also be created. This body would have decision-making power over safety policies across the entire country.

2. Standardizing Police Procedures

Another major point is the standardization of police protocols. The PEC would set national guidelines for the use of force, approaches, and special operations. The goal is to reduce regional differences in how police operate.

For example, rules about body cameras and engagement protocols would be set at the federal level. Every state would follow the same basic standards.

3. Redefining the Role of Municipal Guards

The bill would also affect municipal guards. Currently, these forces have local autonomy and responsibilities. The PEC would set clearer limits and reduce some of their duties.

As a result, they would focus more on protecting public property and less on street-level policing. Mayors would have less control over local safety.

4. Integrating Databases and Intelligence

On a less controversial note, the proposal includes better technology integration. It calls for a unified system to share information among all security forces. This would make investigations more efficient.

The bill also includes funding for national intelligence efforts against organized crime. Even critics often support this part.

Criticisms of the Proposal: Arguments Against It

Too Much Power in the Federal Government

The biggest concern is over-centralization. Governors and experts argue that the current system, though imperfect, respects Brazil’s federal structure. The PEC would shift major decisions to Brasília.

Different states have very different safety challenges. For example, security issues in the Amazon are nothing like those in São Paulo. One-size-fits-all policies might not work everywhere.

Weakening State Autonomy

Critics also say elected governors would lose control over a core part of their job. Police commanders would answer more to the federal council than to state leaders. This could hurt local governance.

Police operations might need federal approval or coordination, slowing down responses to local needs.

Fears of Political Misuse of Security Forces

Some worry the government could use centralized control for political gain. Opponents say it would be easier to turn police forces into tools for one party. This could threaten democracy.

They point to historical examples where too much control over security led to abuse. They want to keep checks and balances in place.

Practical and Operational Concerns

There are also technical worries. How do you effectively coordinate tens of thousands of officers across a huge country? Who pays for standardizing equipment and training?

Even supporters of the idea question whether it can actually work. They fear the PEC might create more red tape without solving real problems.

The Political Debate Around the PEC

Tensions Between Federal Government and Governors

The timing matters. The PEC comes during political friction. Recent state-level police operations drew federal criticism. Governors, in turn, accused the federal government of overstepping.

Many see the bill as a political move to settle these disputes. The technical debate about safety is tangled up with power struggles between government levels.

Extreme Interpretations

Some call it a “coup” or a step toward a “police state.” Others paint it as the only fix for crime.

Balanced analyses suggest the truth lies in trusting the government’s good intentions—while keeping a close eye on the details.

International Public Safety Models

Centralized vs. Federal Systems

To put the debate in perspective, let’s look abroad. Countries like France and Italy have highly centralized police forces that report directly to the national government.

On the other hand, the United States and Germany use federal systems similar to Brazil’s current setup. States or provinces have wide control over their own police.

What Do Public Safety Experts Say?

Academic Views on the Proposal

Experts warn that too much centralization could slow down local responses. The farther the command center is from the ground, the harder it is to act quickly.

The Need for Independent Oversight

Everyone agrees strong oversight is essential—no matter the model. Independent review boards, stronger ombudsmen, and public involvement are key.

Transparency and accountability should be the top priority in any reform.

Public Concerns and Risks

People worry that a distant command center might not understand local realities. Standardized responses could miss the mark.

There’s also fear of over-militarization or political misuse of police. Any reform must come with strong democratic safeguards.

The Legislative Process for the PEC

Next Steps in Congress

PEC 18/2025 is in the early stages. First, it will go through thematic committees in the Chamber of Deputies. Debates will happen, and amendments may be added.

It then needs approval in two rounds in the Chamber, each requiring three-fifths of the votes. The same process repeats in the Senate. The journey will be long and complex.

Opportunities for Public Participation

Public hearings will be held along the way. Experts and citizens can speak up. It’s important for anyone who cares to follow and join the conversation.

No matter where you stand, democratic participation in lawmaking matters. Public safety affects everyone.

Alternatives and Competing Proposals

Other Ideas for Safety Reform

There are other plans on the table. Some want to keep the current federal structure but invest heavily in shared technology. States would stay independent but better connected.

Others suggest a hybrid model: a permanent national task force for specific crimes, with cooperation but no full central control.

Conclusion: A Necessary and Complex Debate

In short, the PEC raises serious questions about federalism, local control, and the risk of too much power in one place. These issues deserve careful thought.

More than extreme “yes” or “no” positions, we need informed, democratic discussion. Any reform should fight crime effectively while protecting democratic rights and freedoms.

What do you think? Would centralization bring more benefits or risks? How do we balance national coordination with respect for local autonomy?

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