Positioning Note on the Mariana Ferrer case

Positioning note

According to the Brazilian Court of Justice, it is in the public domain that forcing someone to perform sexual acts is a crime defined in Article 213 of the Penal Code. The historic struggle to recognize rape as a heinous crime capable of causing suffering and trauma to thousands of lives is already known in all areas of our society. The complexity of this criminal act goes beyond the meaning of sexual practice per se, but also includes understanding coercion, non-consent and dehumanizing the body of that (e) who is violated. We believe that this reflection is fundamental to any and all professionals who have the responsibility to promote health care, psychosocial care or in compliance with the law in defense of victims.

The recent case of Mariana Ferrer reinforces the need for debate to consolidate professional ethical practices in line with the law of our country and with health care and valuing life. To fulfill this objective, as a training institution in mental health, CEFI expresses its support and listens to all who have suffered or still suffer the real and social consequences of sexual abuse. As well as respect for life and conductual ethics inherent to those who make themselves available as professionals responsible for the organization and development of a more just and solidary society to live in.

Psychologist Mariane Radke
Master in Public Health
CEFI External Communication Team