If you have been following the news throughout the year, you must have come across several reports of deaths, sometimes of people not involved in the crime, by . Not surprisingly, a Datafolha survey revealed that .
This situation not only weakens public security, but also fuels distrust in action. Reversing this situation requires immediate action: clear protocols, technology aligned with good practices and incentives that promote responsibility and transparency in corporations.
The use of body cameras by PMESP (in the State of São Paulo) is a concrete example of how technology can contribute to a paradigm shift.
A study by FGV’s Center for Science Applied to Public Security demonstrated that the adoption of “body cams” reduced deaths resulting from police actions by 57% in the areas where they were implemented.
This reduction occurred, such as arrests or records of criminal incidents, showing that technology does not weaken police action.
Despite the results, technology alone does not solve structural problems. It is essential to transform the way police forces relate to society, breaking with exclusionary practices that generate victims. Well-defined protocols and clear incentives are essential for this transformation to be effective.
The impact of body cameras is enhanced when combined with proper training. Police officers trained in de-escalation techniques, who understand the limits of the use of force and are aware that their actions are being monitored, tend to act more ethically.
The recordings can also be used as teaching material, improving the continuous training of agents. Studies such as that by Ariel Barak and other authors reinforce that integrating cameras into institutional management is essential to consolidate a culture of responsibility.
Another critical point is the appreciation of professionals who adhere to good practices. Financial and career incentives are fundamental to ensuring the engagement of police officers, preventing measures such as body cams from being seen as forms of punishment or excessive control.
Recognizing and rewarding exemplary conduct strengthens internal motivation and promotes an environment more receptive to change.
In Brazil, PMESP’s Olho Vivo program is a relevant reference. Despite facing financial challenges and political resistance, the project demonstrated positive results in reducing police violence and promoting a more transparent culture.
However, budget cuts recently made by the state government compromise its continuity, highlighting the fragility of public policies in contexts of political and economic instability.
This lack of prioritization highlights the need for social mobilization to ensure the expansion of initiatives that have already proven effective.
Rebuilding trust in the police is an urgent need to combat crime and protect fundamental rights.
Data from Datafolha shows that fear is more present among black people, who are historically more vulnerable to state violence, which reinforces the urgency of policies that not only mitigate the effects, but address the causes of mistrust.
Brazil has concrete examples and tools at its disposal to move forward. The challenge is to ensure that our governors understand that adopting clear protocols and investing in transparency for security forces is not a choice, but an obligation.
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