Between Continuities and Ruptures: The Prison System of Rio Grande do Norte after the Alcaçuz Massacre and the Models of Life and Death Management in that Prison

Abstract

In this article, I analyze prison management policies at Alcaçuz Prison, located in Rio Grande do Norte, during the period from 2017 to 2023. I reflect on the role of two external actors that gained prominence during this time: the National Mechanism for the Prevention and Combat of Torture (MNPCT) and the Tactical Prison Intervention Force (FTIP), and how they conceive what constitutes "good" or "bad" management of life and death within the prison. I aim to show how these actors brought about significant changes in prison dynamics, despite the persistence of long-standing and seemingly entrenched structures. Finally, I seek to reflect on which projects have gained more traction and the consequences of this process for those in custody and for us, as a society.