Federal gov’t to require 30% racial quota in appointed posts

As a way of expanding the presence of black people in public administration, Brazil’s federal government is implementing a 30% racial quota in specially appointed management positions in the Executive branch, including autonomous agencies and foundations.

The decree instituting the measure was signed by President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on Tuesday (Mar. 21) at the Planalto presidential palace during a ceremony in observance of the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

“Despite being the second largest black nation on the planet [after Nigeria], Brazil is yet to come to terms with its 350 years of slavery. Despite all the efforts and strides, this country still has an immense historical debt to redeem,” Lula said in his address after signing the decree.

The president noted that the Lei Áurea, which abolished slavery in Brazil back in 1888, took the people from the confinement of slave quarters to appalling social statistics. “Housing, employment, education, health care, public safety. Whatever the indicator might be, black men and especially black women, have always been the most excluded,” he argued.

The document sets the end of 2026 as a deadline for the federal administration to reach the minimum percentage of positions stipulated.