Prison social work

This chapter explores the disparities and commonalities in prison social work between Latin America and Europe. It emphasizes the importance of a dialogue between these regions to enhance human rights and reintegration efforts. Latin American prisons struggle more with structural issues, severe control measures and corruption, while European prisons, although better resourced, also face specific challenges, like radicalization. Both regions are influenced by punitive populism, affecting the focus on reintegration versus punishment. The dual role of prisons in control and reintegration creates tensions for social workers. The authors propose several strategies to improve prison social work, including alternative sentencing, a human rights approach and enhanced training for social workers. They emphasize the need for evidence-based programs and continuous support for reintegration efforts. In conclusion, this chapter calls for innovative, interdisciplinary approaches to prison social work, advocating for reforms that prioritize human rights and effective reintegration.