I. Introduction: Shrinking Democratic Space 
Brazil’s democracy, once celebrated as a regional success story, is facing mounting threats to civil liberties. Freedom of expression, press, and assembly are increasingly undermined by government hostility, state repression, and the rise of extremist groups. As these liberties erode, many Brazilians feel compelled to leave their homeland, seeking safety and stability abroad. 

II. Curtailment of Freedom of Expression 
Freedom of expression in Brazil has come under pressure from political authorities and extremist movements. Critics of the government face harassment, lawsuits, and smear campaigns, while dissent on social media platforms often results in threats of violence. This curtailment has left many citizens fearful of voicing their opinions openly. 

III. Attacks on Journalists and Media Outlets 
Independent journalism in Brazil has become a dangerous profession. Reporters investigating corruption, environmental crimes, and human rights abuses are frequent targets of harassment and intimidation. Media outlets face economic and political pressure, leading to self-censorship and reduced coverage of sensitive issues. 

IV. Restrictions on Peaceful Assembly 
Protests and demonstrations are often met with violent crackdowns by security forces. The excessive use of tear gas, rubber bullets, and arbitrary detentions deters citizens from exercising their right to peaceful assembly. These restrictions weaken civic participation and create an atmosphere of fear. 

V. Surveillance and Intimidation 
Human rights defenders, activists, and opposition figures report increased surveillance by state authorities. This monitoring is often accompanied by intimidation, threats, and attempts to discredit their work. The lack of safeguards against abuse of surveillance undermines privacy rights and democratic freedoms. 

VI. Civil Society Under Pressure 
Civil society organisations advocating for indigenous rights, environmental protection, and gender equality face growing hostility from authorities. They are often labelled as enemies of development or foreign agents, undermining their legitimacy and limiting their operations. 

VII. Gendered Impacts of Civil Liberty Restrictions 
Women activists face additional threats, including gender-based violence and harassment. These attacks are designed to silence women’s voices and discourage their participation in civic life, compounding the repression of civil liberties. 

VIII. LGBT Communities at Risk 
LGBT Brazilians face both societal hostility and legal setbacks, with extremist groups advocating policies that undermine equal rights. Threats to LGBT organisations and activists highlight the broader erosion of freedoms across society. 

IX. Judicial Weakness and Impunity 
The judiciary, compromised by corruption and political interference, often fails to protect civil liberties. Cases of abuse and repression are rarely prosecuted, reinforcing cycles of impunity that leave citizens vulnerable. 

X. Migration as a Path to Freedom 
As restrictions on civil liberties intensify, many Brazilians turn to migration as a means of reclaiming their freedoms. Asylum claims frequently reference threats to free expression, repression of protests, and persecution of activists. Exile becomes not only an act of survival but also a statement of resistance against authoritarianism. 

XI. Diaspora Advocacy for Democratic Freedoms 
Brazilians abroad play a vital role in advocating for civil liberties at the international level. Through activism and solidarity networks, they raise awareness of the shrinking democratic space in Brazil and pressure global actors to hold the government accountable. 

XII. Conclusion: Preserving Liberty Beyond Borders 
Civil liberties in Brazil are under significant threat, undermining democratic governance and human rights. Until the state restores protections for free expression, assembly, and association, many Brazilians will continue to see migration as their only path to freedom and dignity. This exodus highlights both the fragility of democracy and the resilience of those determined to preserve liberty beyond their borders.