Brazil recorded its lowest homicide rate since 2013 [2], according to data released this week by the Atlas da Violência and the Fórum Brasileiro de Segurança Pública.
This decline suggests a shift in national security trends, though the persistence of high murder volumes indicates that systemic violence remains a critical challenge for the South American nation.
The Atlas da Violência reported approximately 42,600 murders for the year 2024 [1]. However, other data from the Fórum Brasileiro de Segurança Pública cite a higher figure of 47,503 homicides for the same period [5]. This discrepancy highlights the complexities of tracking crime data across Brazil's diverse regions.
Despite the difference in totals, the overall trend shows a downward trajectory. Some reports indicate an average of 130 deaths per day [6]. The decline is attributed to a combination of security policies and other factors, though the Atlas da Violência said that under-reporting may affect the accuracy of the figures [1].
Regional data shows varying results. In the state of Amazonas, homicides fell by 14.7 percent [4], with 1,326 murders recorded in 2024 [3]. Despite this reduction, the homicide rate in Amazonas remains above the national average [3].
Gender-based violence remains a severe concern. Brazil recorded more than 3,600 homicides of women in 2024 [7]. Reports indicate that negligence and sexual abuse were the leading causes of these occurrences [7].
Recent trends suggest the decline may be continuing. Data for the first quarter of 2026 show the lowest number of homicides and latrocínios, robberies resulting in death, in 10 years [8].
“Brazil recorded its lowest homicide rate since 2013”
The drop to an 11-year low in homicides suggests that recent security interventions may be yielding results. However, the gap between reporting agencies and the continued high volume of daily deaths indicate that the state's grip on public safety is inconsistent. The specific persistence of high violence in Amazonas and the high number of female homicides show that while the national average is falling, vulnerable populations and specific border regions remain at high risk.
