Social Protection Systems in Latin America

In recent years, Brazil has developed a series of economic and social policies designed to overcome social exclusion, hunger, inequality and poverty. The non-contributory social protection programmes developed over the past two decades are some of the best known of these efforts. However, Brazil has also implemented substantial economic reforms, driving economic growth, creating new job opportunities and regulating the labour market—including raising the minimum wage. These actions, together with the expansion and improvement of both contributory and non-contributory benefits, have helped improve access to welfare for the population as a whole. The foundation for social protection in Brazil derives from the country’s 1988 Constitution, which recognises the role of the State in ensuring social rights in the areas of education, health, labour and social security for all citizens. The Constitution also promotes decentralisation and social participation in implementing public policies, and created the social security system, Sistema de Seguridade Social, which consists of a non