O trabalho como um elemento do processo de reinserção social de pessoas em privação de liberdade: uma análise da experiência da Unidade de Progressão de Ponta Grossa, Paraná.

Abstract

The theme of this study is “Work as an element of the process of social reintegration of people deprived of liberty, with emphasis on the Progression Unit of Ponta Grossa, Paraná”. The research was justified by the importance of work as a form of social reintegration, as well as by the need to build scientific support that contributes to the analysis of the effectiveness of public policies aimed at this purpose. The research problem involved the understanding of external work and its contribution to the social inclusion of people deprived of liberty, in the sense of realizing rights, recognizing and making the exercise of citizenship accessible to these rights holders, focusing on the experience of the Progression Unit of Ponta Grossa, Paraná. The general objective was to analyze the experience of external work of people deprived of liberty at the Ponta Grossa-Paraná Progression Unit, as an element of social reintegration, taking as a time frame the experience during the period from January 2023 to January 2024. Regarding the specific objectives, the following were outlined: to discuss criminal execution in Brazil from the perspective of the Democratic State of Law in its relationship with public policies and society; to reflect on work as an element of the process of social reintegration of people deprived of liberty; to analyze the experience of the Ponta Grossa Progression Unit, Paraná, regarding external work as an element of the social reintegration process, identifying its benefits and challenges, from the perspective of the subjects involved. The research is of a qualitative nature, of an exploratory descriptive nature, composed of the following phases: bibliographic, documentary and field research. To collect data, semi-structured interviews were conducted with individuals deprived of liberty, directors and employees of the Progression Units, and representatives of companies or public agencies that offer job opportunities while serving their sentences. The research revealed that external work is a tool for the social reintegration of individuals deprived of liberty, providing sentence reduction, strengthening family ties, and professional training. The companies involved receive economic and social benefits, but the individuals deprived of liberty who work for them face challenges arising from social stigma. State representatives recognize external work as an effective strategy for reducing criminal recidivism and building a new social identity. The Progression Unit in the city of Ponta Grossa has stood out as an efficient model, offering opportunities for training, practical learning, and ongoing monitoring of inmates, promoting gradual and sustainable social reintegration. However, the research identified challenges such as the need to expand the number of vacancies to more individuals deprived of liberty, greater transparency in the selection process, and strengthening psychosocial support. The implementation of its actions as a public policy and the expansion of partnerships between the public and private sectors are highlighted as essential measures to improve the effectiveness of the program. The research highlights that raising awareness in society and combating stigma are fundamental to ensuring effective social reintegration, through the guarantee of citizenship rights.