Young women's accessing welfare: poverty and gender in the ‘Hybrid’ Auxílio Brasil Program

This study aims to bring to light the perceptions and experiences of young women living in Rio de Janeiro, who are part of the Brazilian government social welfare program Auxílio Brasil (ABP). The former social assistance program Bolsa Familia (BFP), was reformed by the current administration of Jair Messias Bolsonaro. Partido Trabalhista (PT) adhered to the concept of combining multiple existing social assistance benefits under Bolsa Família (BFP). Welfare, which could have been interpreted as common ground between the two main presidential candidates in 2022, has become fuel for political gain and self-interest. Although politics cannot be discarded as an influence, this research focuses on young women beneficiaries and their families. Along with the name change to the program, registration has been updated to follow current cultural processes with the influence of internet and social media. The main research question aims to determine if the new digital/hybrid welfare program is indeed promoting inclusion or widening social exclusion. In order to answer this question and follow up questions, the research methodology used is qualitative through individual interviews, credible online databases, and participatory observation. In conclusion this study examines the changes, if any, in the program Auxílio Brasil (ABP) compared to BFP program (PBR) as a hybrid welfare program, based on young women’s experiences. Some key suggestions are made, having in mind the dignity of young women as welfare recipients.