Argentina launches compulsory prison labor program

On Thursday (October 17, 2024), Argentine Minister of Security, Patricia Bullrich, announced the implementation of the ““Hands to work”. This measure requires prisoners in the country to work in the maintenance and repair of prison facilities.

the Sun protection factor (SPF). The Federal Prison Service of Argentina will implement the initiative throughout the national territory. Shortly after visiting the Ezeiza prison complex, Bullrich justified the decision.

“This launch is a very important point in the transformation and restructuring of the Federal Penitentiary Service, and the relationship between people deprived of liberty and the debt they owe to society.”He mentioned.

Inmates must begin participating in activities necessary to maintain the prisons in which they are housed. According to the minister, the centers should not be maintained solely through taxes paid by residents.

The new policy stipulates penalties for those who refuse to work. The minister stated that any attempt to challenge the law prohibiting compulsory labor in prisons will be submitted to the country’s Supreme Court of Justice.

The project implementation began in Complex No. 4 of the women’s prison in the city of Ezeiza, located approximately 39 kilometers from Buenos Aires. Guest activities will be monitored using a biometric system.

Bullrich announced plans to introduce a bill seeking to change legislation governing the implementation of prison sentences. The change in text must specify that the work will be a mandatory activity for inmates.

This report was written by trainee journalist Anna Miao under the supervision of editor Thais Ferraz.