Targeted social safeguards in the age of universal social protection: the IMF and health systems of low-income countries

In offering loans to low-income countries in exchange for policy reforms,
the International Monetary Fund (IMF) typically sets the fiscal parameters
within which health systems develop. In a recent report released by the
organisation, the IMF claims that their programmes have promoted social
protection, including access to health care. We revisit the findings presented
in the IMF’s assessment. Drawing on material collected from the IMF and
empirical analyses, we show that the report is methodologically flawed,
unduly optimistic and potentially misleading. We conclude by reflecting
on the IMF’s steadfast endorsement of targeted social assistance, despite a
global tide turn towards universal social provision.