Eduardo Bolsonaro criticizes mandatory child vaccinations in Brazil, citing 'respect for freedom'

Former federal deputy Eduardo Bolsonaro has publicly criticized Brazil's mandatory vaccination policy for children, arguing that it infringes upon personal liberty. In a video shared on social media, Bolsonaro stated that President Lula's administration mandates vaccinations for all children, yet the government would not be held responsible if any adverse effects occurred.

He detailed his experience in Texas, where he and his family are currently residing. Bolsonaro explained that he obtained a sworn declaration from the Texas government for $10, exempting his daughter from mandatory vaccinations, which allowed him to enroll her in a local school. He advocated for Brazil to adopt this model, which he characterized as a policy of freedom.

"I printed this paper at home here, from the Texas government, signed it, took it to a kind of notary, but without a queue. I paid 10 dollars and the sworn declaration is done, where I take responsibility for my daughter not taking vaccines," Bolsonaro said in the video, referring to his daughter with President Lula's administration.

Bolsonaro further pointed to a statement from a major vaccine manufacturer during the pandemic, which he claimed absolved itself of responsibility for potential side effects in the product's own leaflet. He believes this episode reinforces the need for Brazil to emulate the American approach, which he described as prioritizing freedom. He asserted that parents are the best judges of what is suitable for their children, and shared responsibility with the state should not exist.

"Because if any side effect occurs, no one from the government will be held responsible. Or perhaps quite the opposite, right? They will even cover up an investigation, which only increases suspicion," Bolsonaro added, suggesting a potential government cover-up of vaccine-related issues.

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No Brasil, papai Lula obriga que todas as crianças se vacinem com tudo quanto é tipo de coisa. E se der alguma coisa errado, certamente ele não será o responsabilizado