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When (not) to target social programs: the simple arithmetic of the effectiveness of scale-up

Author

Listed:
  • Sam Jones
  • Telça Massingue
  • Hilário Muchabel

Abstract

We develop a framework to assess when social programmes should prioritize expanding coverage versus improving targeting accuracy. Rather than treating universalism and targeting as a binary choice, we derive a practical rule-of-thumb based on observed eligibility rates and programme quotas to indicate when marginal welfare gains from expanding programme access may outweigh those from improved targeting.

Suggested Citation

  • Sam Jones & Telça Massingue & Hilário Muchabel, 2025. "When (not) to target social programs: the simple arithmetic of the effectiveness of scale-up," WIDER Working Paper Series wp-2025-80, World Institute for Development Economic Research (UNU-WIDER).
    • Handle: RePEc:unu:wpaper:wp-2025-80
    as

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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Andrews, Matt & Pritchett, Lant & Woolcock, Michael, 2017. "Building State Capability: Evidence, Analysis, Action," OUP Catalogue, Oxford University Press, number 9780198747482.
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