PRODUCTIVE RESTRUCTURING AND LABOR FLEXIBILIZATION

A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Labor flexibilization is a multifaceted phenomenon that ambiguously impacts workers, organizations, and society. While some approaches highlight benefits such as greater autonomy and a better work-life balance, others point to the deterioration of working conditions and the intensification of labor exploitation. This study conducts a systematic literature review (2014-2024) on labor flexibilization in Brazil, focusing on its impacts on labor regulation and worker dignity. The research utilized databases such as Scopus and SciELO, applying lexicometric analysis methods to identify thematic clusters structuring the academic discourse. The results indicate that labor flexibilization is intrinsically linked to productive restructuring and the structural crisis of capitalism, fostering atypical employment arrangements such as outsourcing, individual entrepreneurship ("pejotização"), and platform-based work ("uberization"). The reviewed literature emphasizes that these changes, driven by labor reforms and technological advancements, lead to a reduction in labor rights, increased legal insecurity, and the deterioration of working conditions. Given this scenario, the study discusses the need for a regulatory approach that ensures the fundamental right to decent work, in line with the principles of human dignity and fair labor standards. The study concludes that, while flexibilization offers advantages in specific sectors, it has deepened inequalities and weakened workers’ social protection, demanding a renewed commitment from the State and society to promote public policies that balance productivity and well-being.