Brazil Investigates “Training to Attack” Videos Amid Violence Surge

Brazil Probes “Training to Attack” Videos Amid Rise in Violence Against Women

Brazilian federal police are investigating disturbing online videos showing men training to attack women who reject them. This alarming trend, often titled “training in case she says no,” is now a response to a surge in misogynistic content circulating online. The videos feature men practicing violence on punching bags, mannequins, and even using knives, sparking widespread concern.

TikTok has removed many of these videos, but the potential for real-world harm remains high. Authorities are particularly worried about the link between this online content and actual acts of violence.

One harrowing case in Rio de Janeiro involved a 20-year-old woman who was brutally stabbed nearly 50 times by a man she had rejected from her gym. Her mother reported that the attacker had been consuming this specific type of online material.

Femicide Rates Soar in Brazil

The disturbing trend highlights Brazil’s ongoing struggle with femicide, the intentional killing of women due to their gender. Perpetrators are frequently current or former romantic partners.

Last year alone, Brazil recorded nearly 7,000 victims of attempted or completed femicides. This figure represents a significant 34% increase compared to the previous year, showing a deeply troubling upward trajectory in gender-based killings.

Researchers found that over 2,000 women lost their lives to femicide last year. This translates to an average of almost six femicides occurring every single day across the nation. This stark statistic highlights the severity of the violence women face simply because of their gender in Brazil.

The Rise of “Red Pill” Content and Its Impact

Experts point to a growing presence of misogynistic online content, often referred to as “red pill” content, as a contributing factor. This type of material claims to reveal a hidden truth about gender relations.

It frequently promotes rigid ideas about masculinity, male dominance, and traditional gender roles. Such content often fuels resentment towards women and can overlap with extremist ideologies.

A study identified 123 YouTube channels in Brazil spreading this material, boasting over 23 million subscribers. The following for these channels has grown by more than 18% since 2024.

Some online groups have even shared graphic videos depicting women being assaulted, beaten, raped, and degraded, creating a toxic online environment. Experts are especially concerned about this harmful content reaching young people through their social media feeds.

Law Enforcement and Educational Responses

In response to this crisis, Brazilian police are taking action. Specialized units in some states are now visiting schools weekly.

Their goal is to educate teenagers about the dangers and realities of gender-based violence. This proactive approach aims to counter the spread of harmful ideologies at an early age.

Some men are actively pushing back against the violent trend. They are creating their own videos to show how to react respectfully when rejected by a woman. These counter-narratives aim to promote healthy relationship dynamics and challenge the toxic masculinity being spread online.

Looking Ahead

The investigation into the “training to attack” videos is ongoing, with authorities working to identify and prosecute those involved. The Brazilian government and social media platforms face increasing pressure to curb the spread of misogynistic content. The focus now shifts to how effectively these efforts can prevent further violence and protect women.

Source: Brazil: Misogynistic online trend highlights violence against women | DW News (YouTube)