In spite of recognizing the important steps taken by Brazil in terms of legislation, safeguards and institutional reforms, the UN Rapporteur against Torture points out, in his report on last year's visit, that the reality on the streets, police stations and prisons in the country does not reflect these advances and the practice of torture, ill-treatment, and even homicides, committed by the police and prison and socio-educational agents, continues to occur at extremely alarming levels. In addition, the Rapporteur warns that vulnerable groups, especially racial, sexual and gender minorities, are the most affected by such violations.
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