The Ministry of Homeland Security of the Republic of Argentina announced the end of the economic remuneration system for inmates without productive tasks. Based on a new provision, it seeks to end what was described as a model of "inactivity rewarded with state funds," implemented during previous administrations.
The measure, which comes into effect this month, is part of the Hands to Work plan, launched in October 2024, whose goal is to apply the principle of zero idleness in federal prisons. The new scheme establishes that only 5% of inmates may perform general establishment tasks (such as cleaning and maintenance) without pay, as long as they meet a minimum of eight hours a day.
Those who don't work, don't get paid
According to the official statement released by the department headed by Patricia Bullrich, the rest of the inmates must assume coexistence tasks, such as cleaning cells and common areas, without any economic compensation.
"Those who do nothing, don't get paid. Those who do productive work get paid for what they do, not for being incarcerated", emphasizes the official text, summarizing the new philosophy of prison management. This way, it seeks to promote real work within the penal units and eradicate the figure of the inmate who receives benefits without compensation.
A structural change in the penitentiary system
From the Ministry, they affirm that this policy represents a structural change oriented toward internal order and the reduction of idleness in prisons, while combating what is perceived as a culture of privileges inherited from Kirchnerist administrations.
The implementation of the "Hands to Work" plan is presented as part of a stricter and more productivist approach in the treatment of people deprived of liberty. With this regulation, the State seeks to align the prison regime with values of effort, work, and individual responsibility, eliminating what they consider previous distortions.
