Maria da Penha Maia Fernandes

A Brazilian activist whose case led to landmark legislation against domestic violence, influencing global legal frameworks.

Maria da Penha Maia Fernandes is a Brazilian nurse and activist who became a pivotal figure in the fight against domestic violence. Her personal experience of suffering extreme abuse at the hands of her husband led to a groundbreaking legal case that transformed Brazilian law and inspired global policies. In 1983, her husband attempted to murder her by throwing sulfuric acid in her face, leaving her paralyzed. Despite this, he was acquitted by the court, exposing systemic failures in addressing domestic violence. Da Penha’s relentless advocacy led to the creation of the Maria da Penha Law (2006), Brazil’s first comprehensive law against domestic violence, which established protective measures and penalties for offenders. This legislation has since been a model for countries worldwide, including Argentina, Chile, and Colombia. Da Penha’s work extended beyond Brazil, as she collaborated with the UN to promote similar laws globally. Her story is a testament to resilience and the power of legal reform in protecting vulnerable populations. She continues to advocate for women’s rights through her organization, Maria da Penha Institute, which provides support services and legal aid to victims of domestic violence.