This study rose from concerns about public policies focused on youth being developed in the Rio de Janeiro state legislature (ALERJ) as well as the political and social actions of the phenomenon of violence which involves youth. We consider young people as a single group: the subjects of rights and citizenship. Despite this, many young people are seen in a dehumanized form. The high level of violence against youth, especially black and poor youth and residents of favelas raises deep concern about the role of the State as protector and the unfolding political debate about youth and violence in the Rio de Janeiro state legislature. This study analyses the debate targeted on youth and violence, focusing on the violation of rights, and proposals and actions for and against the principles of human rights, as well as a reflection on specific actions of legislators on this subject. Proposals and actions promoted by the state legislature officers can promote preventative and protective policies for young people who are vulnerable to all sorts of violence. The hope is that this study will contribute to the debate and possible new ways of thinking.