Network against Domestic Violence: : Mapping out the implementation of the Maria da Penha Law in the Contagem - Belo Horizonte Metropolitan Area

Sammanfattning: The purpose of this dissertation is to examine the implementation process of Law 11.340/06, commonly known as the Maria da Penha Law, through a macro-study conducted in the Contagem–Belo Horizonte metropolitan area. Law 11.340/06 was created in 2006 by the Brazilian government to curb and prevent domestic violence in the country. This newly created law is important because domestic violence accounts for 70 % of all homicides against women in Brazil.  In order to conduct this study, the researcher traveled to Brazil during the month of November 2011, to collect data from interviews, seminars, events, newspapers, published reports, a questionnaire, and field observations.  The researcher discovered that several agencies from all three levels of the government formed the Network against Domestic Violence to enforce Law 11.340/06 and to assist abused women.  However, despite many positive changes, the agencies continue to face strong resistance.  The lack of political will is the major factor driving the performance of these agencies and the implementation of Law 11.340/06.