The year 2016 appears to be one of the toughest for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region as their governments face serious policy challenges. The biggest challenge for oil exporters is managing their finances and diversification strategies with oil below $45 a barrel. Fiscal...

This report draws lessons for improving the policy design of poverty alleviation schemes in Jordan. The conclusions herein are based on analyses of trends in consumption poverty in Jordan and assessment of the impact of government programs (including food subsidies and cash transfers) on poverty...

Following the 1998 financial crisis, four out of every ten people slipped into poverty, not able to meet basic needs. Luckily, post-crisis economic rebound was impressive and broad-based, albeit uneven across sectors and regions. This title explores the nature of poverty, both nationally and...

Intro -- Contents -- Executive Summary -- I. Introduction -- II. Poverty and Inequality Declined between 1992 and 1997 -- III. Role of Government Programs -- IV. POLICY IMPLICATIONS -- Annex I Poverty Lines -- Annex II Robustness of the Result of Poverty Reduction -- Annex III Poverty Profile,...