Selected Issues Papers

The Efficiency of Social Spending in Niger: Niger

Author/Editor:

Jean-Marc B. Atsebi ; Paola Ganum

Publication Date:

February 13, 2023

Electronic Access:

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Summary:

Despite some progress, poverty remains elevated and education and health outcomes are lagging. This paper finds evidence of inefficiencies in education, health, and social protection spending in Niger. Programs are typically not well-targeted, some are regressive, and there are significant coverage gaps. Improving the living standards of the Nigerien as well as education and health systems, a priority of the government, would require not only scaling up social spending but also strenghtening social protection programs through better targeting, supporting girls’ education, and moving away from general subsidies. Moreover, social assistance should focus more on enhancing productivity and resilience to shocks.

Series:

Selected Issues Paper No. 2023/003

Subject:

Education Education spending Expenditure Health International organization Monetary policy Population and demographics Poverty

Frequency:

Regular