Lula Expands Brazil’s Affirmative Action in Public Jobs

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    In an effort to broaden the scope of affirmative action in Brazil, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has enacted a new law that boosts the government job quota reserved for Black people from 20% to 30%. This expansion also extends to Indigenous communities and descendants of enslaved Afro-Brazilians.

    The updated quota system will be applicable to candidates seeking permanent employment within Brazil’s federal administration, public agencies, foundations, government-owned businesses, and state-controlled corporations. Scheduled for a reassessment by Congress in 2035, this adjustment underscores a commitment to diversifying public sector careers.

    “We must strive for a government that reflects society in all its diversity, from the Prosecutors’ Office to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and beyond,” remarked President Lula during a ceremony at the presidential palace in Brasilia. He emphasized the underrepresentation of minority groups, noting the scarcity of women, Black and Indigenous individuals in prominent positions.

    Brazil initially embraced racial quota laws under President Dilma Rousseff in 2014, targeting government positions and building on existing affirmative action policies for state-run university admissions. At that time, Black and mixed-race individuals occupied around 25% of the top-tier government roles, which increased to 36% by 2024.

    Despite these improvements, the government acknowledges persistent underrepresentation of Black individuals in public service, as they are often found in lower-wage roles. According to Management and Innovation Minister Esther Dweck, the introduction of the new law addresses the challenge posed by a shortage of newly available government positions over the past decade, when previous quotas were insufficient to shift existing dynamics.

    With Black or mixed-race citizens comprising 55% of Brazil’s population, the government has highlighted significant disparities. Over 70% of those living below the poverty line belong to these ethnic groups, yet they hold a mere 1% of leadership positions in the private sector.

    This legislative progress showcases Brazil’s commitment to fostering a more equitable and inclusive environment within its public sectors, setting a precedent for continued advancement in representation.