O neoliberalismo e a atuação profissional do (a) assistente social na política de assistência social

Abstract

This article aims to initiate brief problematizations about the impacts of neoliberalism that shape the actions of Brazilian governments in the implementation of social rights and, consequently, create a set of challenges in the professional practice of Social Workers, especially those working in the Social Assistance Policy, between the years 1990 and 2022. The main objective is to understand how neoliberalism affects the provision and guarantee of social rights, with emphasis on those ensured by the Social Assistance Policy and, consequently, on the professional practice within this Social Policy. To achieve our objectives, the research adopted a qualitative and bibliographic approach, based on legislation, scientific articles, and official documents related to the Social Assistance Policy. The results reveal that neoliberal-oriented governments (Fernando Henrique Cardoso, Temer, and Bolsonaro) prioritized fiscal adjustment, privatization, and the dismantling of social policies, negatively impacting the Unified Social Assistance System (SUAS) and professional practice. On the other hand, center-left governments (Lula and Dilma) expanded social programs and strengthened social protection, although with structural limitations of a neoliberal nature. It is concluded that neoliberalism weakens the Social Assistance Policy by transferring state responsibilities to the private sector, worsening labor precariousness and restricting access to rights. The importance of a critical and ethical stance by social workers is emphasized, as well as the mobilization of the category in defense of public policies.