Income Inequality

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Global inequality has fallen in the past three decades.
In most countries—especially advanced economies—within-country inequality has increased.
High inequality can be detrimental for macroeconomic stability and for sustained long-term growth.
Policies can be designed to tackle inequality without negative repercussions for growth.
Inequality is a complex concept and is difficult to measure.
Excessive inequality can erode social cohesion, lead to political polarization, and lower economic growth.

Operational Guidance Note for IMF Engagement on Social Spending Issues (April 2024)
Toward and Inclusive Equitable and Sustainable National Pension System in Iraq (April 2024)
Strengthening Armenia’s Social Safety Net (December 2023)

How Countries Are Adapting as the Global Energy Shock Persists — October 1, 2026
- Governments deployed a wide range of measures as the energy shock unfolded, reflecting different domestic economic conditions. Targeting remains essential.
Fiscal Rules Foster Stability as Spending Pressures Grow — September 25, 2025
- Prudent anchors, corrective mechanisms, and supportive institutions can help countries comply with their fiscal rules and commit to sound public finances
Global Debt Remains Above 235% of World GDP — September 17, 2025
- Decline in private lending offsets increase in public borrowing; notable differences persist across countries and income groups.
Disclosing Public Debt Boosts Investor Confidence, Cuts Borrowing Costs — June 12, 2025
- Greater debt transparency builds investor confidence, helps reduce borrowing costs, and strengthens debt sustainability—reducing the risk of shocks that can lead to a debt crisis
Debt is Higher and Rising Faster in 80 Percent of Global Economy — May 29, 2025
- Fiscal Policy under mounting uncertainty means government budgets need resilience—particularly in countries whose economic weight makes them influence global trends
Rising Global Debt Requires Countries to Put their Fiscal House in Order — April 23, 2025
- Amid heightened uncertainty, policymakers will need to deal with complex trade-offs between debt, slower growth, and new spending pressures