RELIGIOUS INTOLERANCE IN BRAZIL: A JURISPRUDENTIAL ANALYSIS OF THE ROLE OF THE COURT OF JUSTICE IN PENALIZING

Abstract

Religious intolerance in Brazil is a persistent phenomenon that affects several religious communities, especially those of African origin and other minorities. Despite legislative advances, religious violence and discrimination continue to be a significant challenge, requiring a critical analysis of the role of the Judiciary in addressing the problem. This study analyzes religious intolerance in Brazil, focusing on the performance of the Judiciary and the effectiveness of penalties. The general objective is to provide a detailed understanding of the application of laws and jurisprudential decisions related to religious intolerance, evaluating how the courts have contributed to the protection of freedom of belief and the fight against discriminatory practices, followed by the specific objectives being: to verify how the application of penalties occurs, the impact of penalties and the penalty imposed for the reduction of cases of religious intolerance in Brazil. The methodology adopted consists of reviewing the existing literature, including scientific articles, pertinent legislation and jurisprudential decisions. The analysis of the sources reveals legislative advances, but also highlights significant challenges in the effective application of punishments and in social awareness of the seriousness of the problem. The final considerations suggest that, in addition to penalties, it is necessary to invest in public policies, social awareness and institutional support for victims to ensure a more effective fight against religious intolerance. The fight against religious intolerance in Brazil requires a continued commitment to inclusion and respect for religious diversity, through a more robust judicial approach and a strengthening of educational and legislative actions.