New Policy Brief: Public works programs and labor market outcomes
This new publication by J-PAL synthesizes results from 13 randomized evaluations of public works programs in low- and middle-income countries related to earnings, employment, and longer-term success in the labor market.
Public works programs in low- and middle-income countries provide short-term employment and earnings boosts to participants. These programs usually do not lead to lasting labor market benefits when measured several years after implementation, though they often generate lasting effects on asset accumulation and savings.