Violence and access to firearms in Brazil

Regulation, Public Security and Criminality

Abstract

This paper aims to discuss the complex relationship between access to firearms and the high levels of violence in Brazil. The research is based on the premise that the improper and indiscriminate use of such equipment can lead to serious consequences for public safety and the country's social stability. The analysis seeks to demonstrate how the rise in criminality may be directly related to the uncontrolled circulation of firearms, especially in contexts where oversight is weak and effective preventive policies are lacking. In this regard, the study intends to contribute to the development of more assertive public policies by the State, considering its three spheres of power: municipal, state, and federal. The article also presents a historical overview of Brazilian legislation that regulates the possession and carrying of firearms, from the earliest regulations to the current legal framework. It discusses the legal requirements for acquiring and carrying weapons, as well as the main crimes associated with their use. The research further highlights the role of the State in preventing armed violence, emphasizing the importance of integrated public policies that include education, public awareness, and the strengthening of security institutions. Finally, the paper analyzes examples of actions and programs that have already been implemented with a focus on the prevention, control, and suppression of armed criminality, evaluating their effectiveness and proposing alternatives for improvement. The adopted approach is both critical and reflective, aiming to provide insights and support for addressing one of the most pressing issues facing Brazilian society today.