Flávio Bolsonaro proposes five Bukele-style prisons and lower age of criminal responsibility in Brazil
Brazilian senator Flávio Bolsonaro has proposed building five new high-security prisons modelled on El Salvador's CECOT facility, lowering the age of criminal responsibility to 16, and introducing chemical castration for sexual offences. Left-wing parties called the package 'unconstitutional and contrary to human rights.' The Lula government sees it as an early rehearsal for the 2026 presidential campaign.
Brazilian senator Flávio Bolsonaro, son of former president Jair Bolsonaro, unveiled a sweeping security package at a Friday press conference. It includes building five new maximum-security facilities modelled on El Salvador's CECOT prison under President Nayib Bukele, lowering the age of criminal responsibility from 18 to 16, and introducing mandatory chemical castration for certain sexual offences.
The Lula government and the left-wing coalition sharply criticised the package. Workers' Party (PT) leaders said the proposals conflict with the Brazilian Constitution and the American Convention on Human Rights. The Brazilian Bar Association warned that, if enacted, the legislation would be taken to the Federal Supreme Court. Parts of the right-wing coalition voiced support, while some centre-right senators were cautious.
Analysts read Flávio Bolsonaro's move as an effort to consolidate the right's base ahead of the 2026 presidential election. With his father's electoral ban still in force, the family is searching for a new standard-bearer. The package is expected to reach the Senate Constitution Committee in the coming weeks.
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