Operation Car Wash, ten years on: an overview of its legacy and the anti-corruption landscape in Brazil
First commencing in 2014, Operation Car Wash (Operação Lava Jato) went on to become the longest-running anti-corruption probe in Brazil’s history. Conducted by the Federal Police, the operation involved over 70 phases and 195 charges, resulting in 244 criminal proceedings, 1,900 search and seizure warrants, 560 arrests, and 981 people charged. Moreover, it led to the signing of 278 collaboration and leniency agreements, with BRL 22 billion eventually returned to public coffers – though this is still subject to dispute before the higher courts.
Although Operation Car Wash officially ended in 2021, the economic and political spheres are still coming to terms with its many complex effects, including legislative reforms and an overall stronger anti-corruption culture within Brazil itself.
