Marcelo Freixo, a human rights defender and state government deputy, is heading a parliamentary inquiry into the activities of milícias in Rio de Janeiro’s shanty towns. The investigation is taking place against a backdrop of death threats, harassment and killings of those who seek to expose abuses by milícias. This document urges the Brazilian authorities to ensure that effective protection is provided for members of the Parliamentary Commission of Inquiry and to ensure that their work is carried on without any restrictions.
