This study provides a discussion about a type of democratic institution in Brazil, the so-called "rights councils". Participatory institutions, such as rights councils and participatory budget, are said to enhance popular participation in politics, enhance citizen’s quality of participation and improve democratic levels. Over the past 20 years, civil society have been taking the political opportunities offered by current governments that created a series of new democratic institutions that directly integrate citizens in the process of formulation of public policies. From data provided by the Institute Pólis about popular participation on those democratic institutions, this paper address two main questions: how civil society was included in those participatory institutions and the challenges and opportunities posed to social movements in after gaining access to those spaces. This paper will thus discuss the advances and limits faced by civil society, focusing especially on challenges posed ahead to deepening democracy in Brazil.
