Particle.news
Download on the App Store

Brazil Lawmaker Files Amendment to Allow Nuclear Weapons for Deterrence

The filing begins a long process requiring congressional supermajorities for any shift in Brazil’s nuclear posture.

Overview

  • The PEC filed by Deputy Kim Kataguiri would remove the constitutional limit that confines nuclear activity to peaceful purposes while keeping the requirement for congressional authorization.
  • It authorizes the Armed Forces to develop a deterrent capability with explicit presidential approval, permitting use only in cases of invasion or a substantiated threat of weapons of mass destruction.
  • The proposal calls for Brazil to exit non-proliferation accords, including the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and the Treaty of Tlatelolco.
  • A complementary law would regulate research, testing, construction and storage of any nuclear weapons under National Congress oversight.
  • The initiative is at the signature-gathering stage to reach 171 deputies before formal review, and any amendment would still need three-fifths approval in two rounds in both chambers.