Links between growth, inequality, and poverty: a survey
Cerra, Valerie ; Lama, Ruy ; Loayza, Norman
IMF - Washington, DC
2021
54 p.
economic growth ; poverty ; social inequality ; income distribution
IMF Working Paper
WP/21/68
Income distribution
English
Bibliogr.
"Is there a tradeoff between raising growth and reducing inequality and poverty? This paper reviews the theoretical and empirical literature on the complex links between growth, inequality, and poverty, with causation going in both directions. The evidence suggests that growth can be effective in reducing poverty, but its impact on inequality is ambiguous and depends on the underlying sources of growth. The impact of poverty and inequality on growth is likewise ambiguous, as several channels mediate the relationship. But most plausible mechanisms suggest that poverty and inequality reduce growth, at least in the long run. Policies play a role in shaping these relationships and those designed to improve equality of opportunity can simultaneously improve inclusiveness and growth."
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