Reading as a Path to Rehabilitation: Can Brazilian Prisoners Shorten Their Sentences by Reading Books?

In recent years, Brazil has implemented a novel initiative aimed at enhancing the lives of prisoners and promoting rehabilitation through reading. In 2019, a law was enacted that allows inmates to shorten their sentences by engaging in reading activities. This article will delve into the details of this unique program, its impact, and its broader implications for the Brazilian prison system.

Legislation and the Reading Program

The law, which was passed in 2019, is part of a larger effort to promote education and rehabilitation within the prison system. Under this law, prisoners can earn sentence reductions by reading books and writing reports about their interpretations. For each book read, inmates can earn up to four days off their sentence, making the program a significant incentive for personal development and reintegration into society.

While not all prisons adhere strictly to this system, the gradual reduction of a prisoner's sentence through activities such as work, professional training, and educational endeavors is recommended by law. The detailed regulation of these activities is provided in Recommendation No. 44 of the Federal Council of Justice, which specifically mentions "reading" as an enabling and acceptable criterion.

Typically, what prisons establish is a system where inmates must read a book within a set timeframe, usually around 20 days, and write a short article commenting on their interpretation of the book. Upon successful completion, inmates can earn a reduction in their sentence ranging from 2 to 4 days.

The Challenges of the Brazilian Prison System

Brazilian prisons remain among the most challenging in the world, often described as little more than decrepit storage facilities for human beings. Overcrowding is a significant issue, with prisons unable to prevent organized criminal gangs from exerting control over inmates. Non-violent convicts frequently face pressure to join dangerous organizations to maintain their safety during incarceration.

Given these harsh conditions, prison authorities are keen to reduce the number of inmates by all means. The influx of new, often more dangerous, convicts puts further strain on the system. As a result, there is a pressing need to find ways to help prisoners re-enter society as productive members.

The reading program, while a small step, is part of broader efforts to encourage social recovery. It provides an opportunity for prisoners to engage in meaningful activities, gain knowledge, and potentially change their mindset and future.

Mixed Reactions and Realities Inside Brazilian Prisons

The reaction to the reading program varies widely among inmates. Some prisoners take this opportunity seriously, using it as a means to acquire new knowledge, culture, and intellectual skills. This could help them reintegrate into society and reduce their likelihood of returning to a life of crime.

However, others may participate merely to gain a slight reduction in their sentence. The reality of Brazilian prisons is complex, with a wide range of motivations and intents among the inmates.

It is important to note that not all prisoners are monsters, nor are they all genuinely interested in changing their ways. The reading program offers a glimmer of hope, but its success depends on a combination of factors, including the individual prisoners' willingness to engage and the support they receive from prison authorities.

Conclusion

The reading program in Brazilian prisons represents a dual approach: it offers hope for personal development and reintegration, while also serving as a practical means to manage prison populations. While the program faces challenges and does not guarantee success for all inmates, it is a step in the right direction towards bettering the lives of those currently incarcerated in Brazil.