Social protection for the poor: Lessons from recent international experience

This paper gives some elements of an analysis of the design and impact of social protection programmes. It talks about targets, choosing between transfers in cash and in kind (food, agricultural inputs, ) and the cost-effectiveness of social transfer programmes. It also talks about sustainability. The author emphasises the need for funders and governments to work together to create the right conditions to set up sustainable social protection systems. Particular attention must be paid to the institutional framework, logistics and political intentions.

 Stephen Devereux, IDS - January 2002