National Social Assistance Council denies recognition of Therapeutic Communities

The National Social Assistance Council, linked to the Ministry of Development and Social Assistance (CNAS/MDA), denied the recognition of therapeutic communities as social assistance entities and their link to the Unified Social Assistance System (SUAS). Resolution 151/2024 determines that only entities with a preponderance of services, programs, projects or social assistance offers that meet the normative criteria of CNAS resolutions 109/2009, 27/2011, 33/ must be registered with social assistance councils. 2011, 34/2011.

Report from the Federal Public Ministry (MPF), based on inspections in 28 Therapeutic Communities in 11 states, reveals violations of human rights, such as torture, kidnapping, false imprisonment and forced labor. Eight out of ten communities, which mainly serve alcohol and drug users, have links with religious organizations.

Public financing of therapeutic communities is criticized by the Federal Psychology Council (CFP). The National Health Council (CNS), the highest instance of social control of the SUS, and the Brazilian Public Health Association (Abrasco) also defend a Mental Health Care model that replaces Therapeutic Communities, with funding from the Psychosocial Care Network.

Source: Ascom/Cofen