UNDERSTANDING THE BOLSA FAMILIA PROGRAM AS A SOCIAL PROTECTION SYSTEM IN BRAZIL

Launched in Brazil as of 2003, Bolsa Familia is an example of conditional cash transfer programs. Under Bolsa Familia, extending support to the poorest groups is targeted by fighting against poverty and alleviating inequality. Besides, preventing poverty from being transmitted across generations and supporting the human capital in terms of education and healthcare are also targeted. Bolsa Familia constitutes the social protection system of the country along with integration of both social insurance and social support programs. Bolsa Familia was transformed into a more comprehensive program by gathering previous programs implemented in the country under a single roof, and it allowed the government to reduce administrative costs. In this study, the focus will be placed on the effect of Bolsa Familia on the fight in the country against poverty and inequality by a theoretical analysis.