O Banco Araribóia como ferramenta na efetivação dos direitos sociais

Abstract

This dissertation addresses the research problem of characterizing the role of the Araribóia Bank as a tool for the realization of social rights, focusing on the economy of Niterói, Rio de Janeiro. It is an exploratory and descriptive study that aims to raise research questions and identify methodological gaps in the integration of the Araribóia Bank into the municipality's solidarity economy program. The investigation seeks to understand to what extent this institution can be considered an instrument of social inclusion and the strengthening of the local economy. A literature review was conducted on the concepts of community development banks (CDBs), solidarity economy, and social currencies. Additionally, the research included document analysis and interviews with key actors, allowing for the examination of the impact of the implementation of the Araribóia social currency and the economic inclusion strategies aimed at vulnerable populations. The Araribóia Bank was analyzed within the context of emerging public policies from the COVID-19 pandemic, formalized by Law No. 3.621 of 2021, which established the social currency as one of the axes of response to the socioeconomic challenges faced by the city. Among the findings, it is highlighted that the Araribóia Bank goes beyond a simple income transfer program. The bank seeks to promote the strengthening of the local economy through income distribution and the circulation of the social currency, encouraging microcredit and consumption in registered small local businesses as well as in some larger retail networks, which contributes to the dynamization of local commerce. Furthermore, the bank, in partnership with the City Hall, manages a fund aimed at fostering solidarity economy enterprises. However, a contradiction was identified between the definition presented on the official page of the Araribóia Currency — which predominantly characterizes it as an income transfer instrument — and its broader potential as a tool for economic and social development, as suggested by municipal legislation. This raises questions about how to improve implementation and ensure that the bank reaches its full potential. Finally, it is concluded that the Araribóia Bank exemplifies the potential of solidarity economy initiatives in promoting social rights and the sustainable development of economically vulnerable communities. However, the research suggests that, in order to maximize the institution’s impact, a more collaborative and integrated approach should be adopted, involving various social and governmental actors. The strategies and challenges identified in this study may serve to guide and inform the replication of similar initiatives in other regions of Brazil, thus contributing to the construction of a fairer and more inclusive society.