This article analyzes the impact of work initiatives promoted by two private enterprises in the re-socialization of prisoners from the Social Re-adaptation Institute in Vila Velha - ES - IRS and the Prison of Medium Security II in Viana - ES - PSME II. The analysis is done from the stand point of inmates and companies' representatives in the prisons. The article also analyzes the managerial aspects related to the implementation and maintenance of these companies in the prisons. This is a qualitative case stud. Data were collected in 2005 through two semi-structured interviews with the companies' representatives in the jail and ten inmates. Competitiveness was the main reason for the companies' entry in the correctional system and for keeping the production in the prison instead of extending it to released convicts. From the inmates' perspective the job represents a way to escape from the prison atmosphere and inactivity as well as gaining work skills and financial support for their families. However, the conclusion made is that such a job has very little influence on the inmates' ability. Nevertheless, the work experience has a positive impact on the day-to-day life of the inmate.
prison work; private enterprise; re-socialization
