" ... new legislation has been introduced that could have a detrimental effect on freedom of expression and access to information. This includes a “fake news” bill that was approved by the Senate in June 2020 and allows for the criminalization of certain online content, creates identification requirements for online platforms account holders, and obliges private-messaging apps to retain communications. In May 2021, a new bill replacing the National Security Act was introduced, which contains provisions criminalizing “mass misleading communication”, and lacks protection measures for investigative journalists. Brazil was therefore added as a target country under the MDP in October 2021 with the aim of enhancing the safety of journalists, building on past experiences in supporting media in the region. Actions notably build on support to ABRAJI from the Global Media Defence Fund, through which ABRAJI is developing a local mechanism to monitor and report on gender-based violence against women journalists. These first few months under the MDP served as an inception phase, during which planning advanced for activities in 2022 and 2023. Future actions will be aligned with the Hague Commitment to Increase the Safety of Journalists, to which Brazil is a signatory, and will come to reinforce the implementation of the UN Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity." (p.2)