THE PMZITO PROGRAM AS A PRIMARY VIOLENCE PREVENTION STRATEGY: CONTRIBUTIONS OF THE MILITARY POLICE OF PARÁ TO CITIZEN EDUCATION

Abstract

This article aimed to analyze the PMZITO Program as a primary violence prevention strategy developed by the Military Police of the State of Pará (PMPA), highlighting its contributions to the civic education of children and adolescents. The study was based on the understanding that violence prevention requires integrated actions that go beyond the exclusively repressive nature of public security, valuing educational and community initiatives aimed at strengthening social protection factors. Methodologically, this is a qualitative, descriptive, and exploratory study conducted through a bibliographic review and documentary analysis of legislation, institutional regulations, and scientific publications related to violence prevention, citizen public security, and the PMZITO Program. The results showed that the program serves as an important mechanism for strengthening ties among police, schools, families, and communities, promoting values such as ethics, citizenship, discipline, respect, social responsibility, and a culture of peace. The findings also indicate that the actions developed contribute to strengthening community bonds, preventing risk behaviors, and fostering citizens who are aware of their rights and duties. It is concluded that PMZITO constitutes a relevant primary violence prevention strategy, strengthening the social role of the Military Police and contributing to the construction of a more citizen-oriented, preventive, and participatory public security system.