Is social protection just a handout? Does it discourage work? Or are the systems plagued by fraud? In this episode, we unpack some of the biggest myths surrounding social protection systems and explore the real data behind the rhetoric.

Despite the strong evidence base available and data which overwhelmingly proves the strengths of social protection in combating poverty and vulnerability, social protection practitioners are often faced by questions or doubts about mechanisms which have been, at some level, settled by evidence, practice and experience.

Whether you're a sceptic or a supporter, this conversation might challenge your assumptions and bring greater clarity to the debate.

Meet our guests:

On this episode we do not have a Quick Wins guest, as there will be a Bonus episode coming out mid-October. But our host, Jo, has highlighted a couple of resources (shared below) from Rema and Tia for you to enjoy in the meantime.

References:

Publication | Dispelling myths on gender and cash transfers: Evidence Summary

Publication | Social Protection: Policymaker Beliefs and Empirical Evidence

Additional references:

Publication | Conditional, unconditional and everything in between: a systematic review of the effects of cash transfer programmes on schooling outcomes.

Publication | The effects of cash transfers on adult labor market outcomes

Publication | Debunking the stereotype of the lazy welfare recipient: Evidence from cash transfer programs

Publication | Theoretical underpinnings and meta-analysis of the effects of cash transfers on intimate partner violence in low-and middle-income countries

Publication | The impact of cash transfers: a review of the evidence from low-and middle-income countries

Publication | A mixed-method review of cash transfers and intimate partner violence in low- and middle-income countries

Publication | Myth-busting? Confronting six common perceptions about unconditional cash transfers as a poverty reduction strategy in Africa

Publication | The Effectiveness of Cash and Cash Plus Interventions on Livelihoods Outcomes: Evidence from a systematic review and meta-analysis

Publication | Social safety nets, women’s economic achievements and agency: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Publication | Do cash transfers alleviate common mental disorders in low-and middle-income countries? A systematic review and meta-analysis