The IMF and Income Inequality

Introduction to Inequality

Inequality is a complex concept and is difficult to measure. Excessive inequality can erode social cohesion, lead to political polarization, and lower economic growth. Learn more about the inequality, its causes and consequences and how the IMF helps countries in tackling inequality.   

IMF's work on Inequality

The IMF analyzes inequality trends and supports countries in designing policies to tackle inequality. The IMF’s extensive work on inequality is reflected in its policy papers and a large body of cross-country and country-specific analytical work.  

Income Inequality and COVID-19

• Digital Solutions for Direct Cash Transfers in Emergencies, The Special Series Notes on COVID-19 - April 20, 2020
• Expenditure Policies in Support of Firms and Households, The Special Series Notes on COVID-19 - April 20, 2020
• Managing the Impact on Households: Assessing Universal Transfers, The Special Series Notes on COVID-19 - April 20, 2020

Blogs

• The Unequal COVID Saving and Wealth Surge (November 9, 2021)
• A COVID-19 Recovery Contribution – IMF Blog (APRIL 16, 2021)
• COVID’s Long Shadow: Social Repercussions of Pandemics – IMF Blog (February 3, 2021)
• Monetary Policy for all? Inequality and the Conduct of Monetary Policy – IMF Blog (SEPTEMBER 30, 2020)

Research

• Tax Policy for Inclusive Growth in Latin America and the Caribbean, January 2022
• The Spending Challenge of Achieving the SDGs in South Asia: Lessons from India, December 2021
• The Distributional Implications of the Impact of Fuel Price Increases on Inflation, November 2021
• Epidemics, Gender, and Human Capital in Developing Countries, November 2021
• Measuring the Redistributive Capacity of Tax Policies, October 2021

Multimedia

Podcast: Kristalina Georgieva Talks Inequality with Oxfam (September, 2020)

 Podcast: Jonathan Ostry on How Pandemics Widen the Gap (May, 2020)