ISH conference platform, International Conference on Community and Complementary Currencies 2011

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Social Money – Analytical study of factual and constitutional precepts that authorize the use of local social currencies as an instrument for solidarity finance in Brazil

Marusa Vasconcelos Freire

Last modified: 2010-12-16

Abstract


The “analytical study of factual and constitutional precepts that authorize the use of  local social currencies (complementary currencies) as an instrument for solidarity finance in Brazil” uses the techniques for analysis of legal relationships and their interactions at the constitutional, economic-policy and operational levels to assist comprehension of the ways in which local communities may use complementary currencies to mobilize needed resources for their survival or prosperity. The study demonstrates that complementary currencies are an expression of the exercise of the freedom (or the right) of people to structure/organize adequate institutions for conducting economic relations with one another. They can thus be deployed when, rather than giving emphasis to private property (article 170, II, of the CRFB[1]) priority is placed upon reducing regional and social inequalities and the quest for full employment (art. 170, VII and VIII, of the CRFB) and, as proposed by those who defend deployment of solidarity finance in Brazil, this approach promotes social/financial inclusion and empowers the poor, thereby opening up greater opportunities for fostering of a sense of freedom, justice and solidarity.

[1] CRFB: Constitution of the Federative Republic of Brazil.