Brazil is characterized by strong social contrasts that lead to considerable social tensions. A major problem is the extremely unequal distribution of wealth and land ownership, as well as the poverty rate. In 2022, more than half of all Brazilians were affected by food insecurity. In addition, the country is deeply divided politically following the rule of far-right President Bolsonaro (2018-2022).
Another issue is the country’s security. Violence and homicide rates in Brazil are among the highest in the world. Drug and gang crime as well as excessive police violence are part of everyday life for many people, especially in the poor neighborhoods of large cities.
The pervasive violence also affects families. Violence against women is above average in Brazil: on average, one woman is murdered every seven hours. Like everywhere else in the world, domestic violence has increased once again during the pandemic.
Our Partner Organization
In Brazil, we have partnered with the Igreja Evangélica de Confissão Luterana no Brasil (IECLB), the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Brazil, since 2014. The IECLB is involved in numerous social and diaconal projects for marginalized people, especially children and youth in poor neighborhoods.
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Our Projects
Professional Training for Trauma Specialists
We strengthen counseling structures of the church in Brazil.
In Brazil, we have been training trauma specialists from the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Brazil since 2015. In the current round of training, 25 people are learning the basics of psychotraumatology. Eight modules cover the diagnosis of trauma-related disorders, stabilizing treatment methods, the topic of attachment, and complex traumatization. The seminars take place both on-site and online. Between the modules, the participants meet in small groups to discuss and further develop their knowledge.
After completing the training, our colleagues apply their knowledge in their work with disadvantaged children, youth and families affected by violence. In addition, the participants share their knowledge with colleagues and educate them about the important issue of trauma.
Each year, graduates of our training courses in Brazil take part in an international refresher seminar at Labenbachhof in Ruhpolding.
The project is funded by the Church Development Service of the Evangelical Church of Bavaria.
