This work aims to analyze the effects of the Bolsa Família Programme in the reduction of poverty in Brazil, with a particular focus on the poorest Brazilian region: the Northeast. The selected...Show moreThis work aims to analyze the effects of the Bolsa Família Programme in the reduction of poverty in Brazil, with a particular focus on the poorest Brazilian region: the Northeast. The selected theme has been chosen after having observed a noticeable reduction in poverty and extreme poverty rates since the beginning of the Programme in 2003. This reduction has been even more remarkable in the Northeast where most of Bolsa Família beneficiaries are concentrated. Besides, the importance of the Programme is underlined as an instrument of social inclusion and its contribution to human development, given its particular focus on children and teenagers. Finally, attention has been given to the implementation of the Programme at a local level, emphasizing the challenges it faces through a case study analysis of two different realities in the State of Pernambuco, the rural one represented by Caetés Municipality (Agreste, Interior of Pernambuco), and the urban one represented by the Recife Municipality. The methodology, as well as a review of the economic and social literature related to the topic, includes quantitative research supported by a qualitative approach. Thanks to the information collected during fieldwork in Brazil, it has been possible to discuss limitations, achievements and finally the future challenges that the Bolsa Família is facing. This recently became an important debate due to the unexpected changes in Brazilian internal politics that, it is worth noting, could affect the existence of this Programme itself, given its governmental nature.Show less
