Intersectorality and health in state public security and violence prevention policies in Brazil

Abstract

The scope of this study is to understand how State Public Security Plans (PSP) incorporate the perspective of violence prevention and intersectorality, with special attention to the role of the health sector. It is a qualitative study that used the techniques of document and content analysis, having the PSP either implemented or in the formulation stage as empirical material. A total of 14 PSP were identified. All plans incorporate the concepts of violence prevention, intersectorality and participation of the health sector. The concept of violence prevention stems from the concept of citizen security, but specific prevention actions are mentioned in a generic way. The incorporation of intersectorality is heterogeneous and insufficient, to the extent that the participation of sectors in the planning phase is not the rule. The participation of the health sector is not always active, that is, from the planning phase of the actions, which, most of the time, are timely and care-based. The health sector also assumes a secondary role, without its experience and potential being recognized. Conceptions of violence prevention, intersectorality and participation of the health sector are present in the plans in an incipient way. The importance of new studies is emphasized.