Overview

• The Inter-American Court held an oral hearing in Asunción on September 26 in the case over at least 96 neonatal deaths at the Clipel ICU in Cabo Frio between 1996 and 1997.
• Representing the state, the AGU acknowledged inspection failures, said the clinic operated without proper authorizations, and offered a formal apology to the families.
• State representatives also argued that many facts predate Brazil’s acceptance of the court’s contentious jurisdiction in December 1998 and contended domestic guarantees were provided despite acquittals.
• Families and experts described infections tied to substandard sanitary practices, while the government signaled openness to a negotiated solution that victims’ counsel criticized as lacking substance.
• If the court finds Brazil responsible, potential orders include compensation, psychological support, renewed investigations, and systemic measures to strengthen neonatal safety and sanitary oversight.