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Expenditure Conditionality in IMF-supported Programs

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  • Mr. Sanjeev Gupta
  • Michela Schena
  • Mr. Seyed Reza Yousefi

Abstract

This paper studies the impact of expenditure conditionality in IMF programs on the composition of public spending. A granular dataset on different government expenditure conditions covering 115 countries for the 1992-2016 period is compiled. The results support the view that while conditionality on specific elements of spending could help achieve a program’s short-term objectives, it is structural conditionality which delivers lasting benefits. Structural public financial management conditionality (such as on budget execution and control) has proven to be effective in boosting the long-term level of education, health, and public investment expenditures. The results further indicate that conditionality on raising such spending may come at the expense of other expenditures. Finally, the successful implementation (and not mere existence) of the conditionality is crucial for improved outcomes. These findings are relevant for policy makers targeting achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Suggested Citation

  • Mr. Sanjeev Gupta & Michela Schena & Mr. Seyed Reza Yousefi, 2018. "Expenditure Conditionality in IMF-supported Programs," IMF Working Papers 2018/255, International Monetary Fund.
    • Handle: RePEc:imf:imfwpa:2018/255
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Jost, Thomas & Seitz, Franz, 2021. "Designing a European Monetary Fund: What role for the IMF?," IMFS Working Paper Series 151, Goethe University Frankfurt, Institute for Monetary and Financial Stability (IMFS).
    2. Mr. Benedict J. Clements & Mr. Sanjeev Gupta & Saida Khamidova, 2019. "Is Military Spending Converging Across Countries? An Examination of Trends and Key Determinants," IMF Working Papers 2019/196, International Monetary Fund.

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