How do safety nets contribute to social inclusion in Bangladesh? Evidence from the Chars Livelihoods Project and the Vulnerable Group Development programme

Omar Faruque Siddiki, Rebecca Holmes, Ferdous Jahan, Fahim Subhan Chowdhury, and Jessica Hagen-Zanker

ABSTRACT

This study uses a social exclusion lens to analyse the effects of the Chars Livelihoods Programme in the chars, the Vulnerable Group Development in the Chittagong Hill Tracts in Bangladesh. It tests assumptions about the role social protection can play in contributing to social inclusion, poverty reduction. The study used mixed methods, employed a quasi-experimental impact evaluation. The findings show that both the programmes have some positive effects on the immediate outcomes of social exclusion, poverty, particularly in terms of strengthening livelihood opportunities, improving food security,, strengthening social participation. However, limitations to the impact of these programmes on tackling the structural causes of exclusion, poverty are evident.