THE EFFECTIVENESS OF SOCIAL SAFETY NET PROGRAMS IN ALLEVIATING POVERTY IN PAKISTAN: A CASE STUDY OF THE BENAZIR INCOME SUPPORT PROGRAMME (BISP)

Abstract

The Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) established in 2008 is a flagship social safety net initiative in Pakistan providing social welfare and alleviating poverty. For the empirical study, this study critically analyzes BISP's effectiveness in fighting poverty by studying its design, implementation, and impact on household of beneficiary. Despite its reaching of millions through financial assistance, BISP is contestable as to how it has functioned in terms of poverty alleviation. This paper reviews literature, presents empirical results, and discusses various effects of BISP on household welfare, women’s empowerment, as well as Social Cohesion. A limitation of the analysis is that it does not acknowledge the program’s role in Pakistan’s broader poverty reduction strategy and also points out achievements and limitations. Implications for BISP’s effectiveness are provided to improve BISP’s ability to contribute more greatly to poverty alleviation in the country.​

Keywords: Benazir Income Support Programme, poverty alleviation, social safety nets, Pakistan, unconditional cash transfers, women's empowerment, socioeconomic impact.