Hate speech incompatible with democracy, says Brazil's top election judge

Kassio Nunes Marques, president of Brazil's Superior Electoral Court (TSE), declared that hate speech fundamentally clashes with democratic values. He made these remarks during the court's session on Thursday, June 18, which coincided with the International Day to Combat Hate Speech.

The UN General Assembly established this day in 2021 to foster peace, tolerance, and respect for diversity, while also condemning calls for discrimination, hostility, and violence. Nunes Marques emphasized that while the exchange of ideas is legitimate and necessary, it should not devolve into attacks on honor, discrimination, or attempts to dehumanize political opponents.

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A divergência de ideias é legítima e necessária, mas não pode ser confundida com ataques à honra, discriminação ou tentativas de desumanizar adversários políticos. Quando a intolerância ocupa o espaço do debate, restringe-se a participação cidadã e aumenta-se o risco de violência política

"When intolerance occupies the space of debate, citizen participation is restricted, and the risk of political violence increases," the minister stated. He assured that the TSE remains vigilant and committed to ensuring free, secure, and inclusive elections. The court is currently reviewing a complaint filed by Senator Flávio Bolsonaro against President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Bolsonaro alleges that Lula engaged in hate speech during remarks about "traitors of the homeland" and that the president targeted the senator for political violence.

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A data reforça a necessidade de enfrentar manifestações de intolerância, discriminação e preconceito que atingem pessoas e grupos vulnerabilizados