Should policy aim at having all people on the same boat? The definition, relevance and challenges of universalism in Latin America

• In Event: Towards universal social policy trajectories in Latin America? Reach, determinants and implications. Part 1.

Abstract

In recent years, attention to universal social policy has intensified in Latin America and other parts of the periphery. Definitions of universal social policy have traditionally varied between a minimalist approach focused on broad coverage and a maximalist approach focused on generous, citizen-based programs funded exclusively with general taxes. This paper proposes instead a definition focused on policy goals: universal social policies are those that reach the entire population with similar generous transfers and high quality services. In light of this definition the paper overviews a number of recent reforms in the region. It concludes by pointing at the tensions between universal and segmented policy outputs found across countries and sectors.

Author

• Juliana Martínez Franzoni, Universidad de Costa Rica