SEXUAL VIOLENCE AGAINST HOMELESS WOMEN IN THE CITY OF MANAUS: A LEGAL ANALYSIS IN LIGHT OF FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS

Abstract

This article examines sexual violence against homeless women in the city of Manaus, Brazil, in light of fundamental rights and the State’s responsibility to protect human dignity. This qualitative study adopts a bibliographic and documentary approach, with a legal-analytical perspective, based on recent scientific literature, institutional reports, and normative frameworks related to gender-based violence, extreme vulnerability, and access to justice. The findings indicate that homelessness intensifies women’s exposure to multiple forms of violence, aggravated by social invisibility, fragile public protection networks, and insufficient intersectoral policies. Sexual violence is identified as a serious violation of human rights, requiring State responses that go beyond criminal measures and include integrated strategies of shelter, prevention, and citizenship. It is concluded that effective responses demand articulation among justice systems, social assistance, public health, and urban policies, especially in regional contexts marked by inequality and institutional omission.