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Can Integrated Social Protection Programmes Affect Social Cohesion? Mixed-Methods Evidence from Malawi

Author

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  • Francesco Burchi

    (German Development Institute (DIE))

  • Federico Roscioli

    (Roma Tre University
    University of Florence)

Abstract

Through a sequential mixed-methods approach, the paper investigates the effects of the different components of the Tingathe Economic Empowerment Programme (TEEP) on social cohesion in Malawi. The TEEP is an integrated social protection scheme offering to three different groups these services: a lump-sum transfer, a financial/business training connected to the creation of saving groups, and a combination of both. While other studies assessed the impacts of similar programmes on other outcomes, none focussed on social cohesion. The econometric analysis shows no concrete effect of the lump-sum, while both training and participation in savings groups affect within-group trust and cooperation. The qualitative analysis reveals a decline in trust towards local institutions and other village members; however, this was not related to the TEEP but to the social cash transfer (SCT) on whose infrastructure the TEEP rests. Other village members considered unfair that the beneficiaries received the SCT and this caused tensions.

Suggested Citation

  • Francesco Burchi & Federico Roscioli, 2022. "Can Integrated Social Protection Programmes Affect Social Cohesion? Mixed-Methods Evidence from Malawi," The European Journal of Development Research, Palgrave Macmillan;European Association of Development Research and Training Institutes (EADI), vol. 34(3), pages 1240-1263, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:pal:eurjdr:v:34:y:2022:i:3:d:10.1057_s41287-022-00535-z
    DOI: 10.1057/s41287-022-00535-z
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    Cited by:

    1. Stefan Beierl & Marina Dodlova, 2022. "Public Works Programmes and Cooperation for the Common Good: Evidence from Malawi," The European Journal of Development Research, Palgrave Macmillan;European Association of Development Research and Training Institutes (EADI), vol. 34(3), pages 1264-1284, June.
    2. Petro G. Nzowa & Felix A. Nandonde & Somo M. L. Seimu, 2023. "Mediation effect of trust on willingness to pay for health insurance among co-operative members in Tanzania," Future Business Journal, Springer, vol. 9(1), pages 1-15, December.
    3. Francesco Burchi & Markus Loewe & Daniele Malerba & Julia Leininger, 2022. "Disentangling the Relationship Between Social Protection and Social Cohesion: Introduction to the Special Issue," The European Journal of Development Research, Palgrave Macmillan;European Association of Development Research and Training Institutes (EADI), vol. 34(3), pages 1195-1215, June.

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