SOCIAL ASSISTANCE IN THE SCENARIO OF INEQUALITY: analysis of the Continuous Benefit Payment

Abstract

The concentration of income and the resulting inequality in its distribution is recognized as one of Brazil's greatest social challenges. In this scenario, this study will discuss the question: “What is the contribution of Social Assistance in the face of inequality in Brazil?”. This question emerges as the axis and guiding hypothesis of the research, to the extent that Social Assistance, as a non-contributory social protection public policy, plays a fundamental role in mitigating the expressions of the Social Issue. Within the Social Assistance policy, the chosen research focus was the analysis of the “Continuous Benefit Payment” (BPC) instrument. Methodologically supported by bibliographic and quantitative research, the study concluded that, although insufficient in relation to the demands of its target audience, this instrument maintains its relevance among public policies of Social Assistance. Such policies contribute to mitigating the effects of the intensification of socioeconomic disparities that especially impact the most vulnerable populations.