UN Report criticizes violence and racism in Civic-Militar schools and reinforces PSOL’s appeal against the militarization of public education in Brazil
The United Nations Children’s Rights Committee (UN) has issued a formal recommendation for Brazil to prohibit the militarization of public schools throughout the national territory. The position meets a request made by PSOL parliamentarians, who question the model of civic-military schools implemented by the São Paulo government, under the management of Tarcisio de Freitas (Republicans).
The international committee expressed “profound concern” with reports of systematic violence against children and adolescents, aggravated by “structural racial discrimination” in the country. The document also cites concerns about murders and disappearances of minors during police operations, recommending to the Brazilian state to adopt measures to combat police lethality and racism in public security institutions.
PSOL celebrates decision, SP government advocates model
The initiative came from a joint request from federal deputy Luciene Cavalcante, state deputy Carlos Giannazi and councilman Celso Giannazi (all from PSOL). Parliamentarians argue that the school militarization program, expanded in Tarcisio management, hurts democratic educational principles.
In response, the São Paulo government stated that adherence to the model was “voluntary and transparent”, with restricted participation in schools that expressed interest after consultation with the community. “The process respected the autonomy of the units and the protagonism of the school community, being implemented only where there was majority approval”highlighted the state administration.
How was the implementation of the model in SP
The program underwent three selection steps:
- Manifestation of interest: 302 Directors demonstrated initial adhesion
- Public consultations: Parents, staff and students over 16 years old vote – 132 schools approved the model
- Final selection: The state government implemented the program in 100 units
Tarcisio management argues that the model complements traditional pedagogical formation, promoting values such as civility, discipline and respect. Critics claim that school militarization deepens inequalities and stigmatizes peripheral students.
The UN recommendation is not binding, but increases international pressure on Brazilian educational policies. The theme promises to intensify the debate between federal government, states and human rights defenders in the coming months.
With information from metropolis*
Source: https://www.ocafezinho.com/2025/06/10/onu-condena-e-pede-fim-das-escolas-civico-militares-gracas-ao-psol/
