Brazil’s Ministry of Women has condemned statements made by US government special adviser Paolo Zampolli about Brazilian women. According to the ministry, the remarks reinforce hate speech and devalue Brazilian women, affronting their dignity and respect.

Recently, in an interview with the Italian broadcaster RAI, Zampolli said that Brazilian women “cause trouble for everyone” and referred to them as a “cursed race.” “They are programmed to do this,” said the US special representative for global partnerships.

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“Misogyny is not an opinion. It is an expression of hatred, aversion, and incitement to violence, constituting a criminal act. In this regard, the ministry emphasizes that hatred against girls and women cannot be relativized under the guise of freedom of expression,” said a statement released by Minister Márcia Lopes.

The note also states that the Brazilian government reaffirms its commitment to promoting women’s rights and combating all forms of gender- and race-based violence, including misogyny.

Brazil’s First Lady Janja Lula da Silva also posted a statement on social media condemning Zampolli’s remarks. According to her, Zampolli has been accused by his ex-wife, Brazilian model Amanda Ungaro, of domestic violence and sexual and psychological abuse.

“Brazilian women, with great strength and courage, break the cycles of violence and silence every day. Saying that we are a ‘cursed race’ and ‘programmed to cause trouble’ does not diminish us. We know very well who we are, and we are very proud of who we become every day,” said the first lady.