Public Pursuit of Secure Welfare : Background Paper on International Development Institutions, Social Protection & Developing Countries

This paper provides an overview of the development of the conceptual framework underlying social protection programming and policy among the key international development institutions active in this sector. It sets out the historical, institutional and political factors underlying the current debate, and their implications in terms of the extension of social protection provision in the developing world. It does not attempt to provide an exhaustive or in depth analysis, but rather aims to draw from the academic literature to illustrate key moments and developments, and provide a resource for practitioners interested in exploring the many and complex issues raised in more detail.