Publication

This paper evaluates targeted social programs aimed at poverty alleviation in the context of international commitments on poverty reduction. The author examines arguments in light of program outcomes and the efficiency of targeting with regard to economic and non-economic costs. He presents the main problems associated with the reported 'evidence' of targeting in poverty reduction programs, arguing that 'targeting' does not necessarily target the poor and is often not cost effective. He states that such targeted social programs require strong institutions and are not always politically sustainable.