Social protection and state‐citizen relations: A review of the literature

Abstract

It is frequently assumed that social protection can play a key role in positively transforming state‐citizen relations in the global South. We examine the evidence with a focus on recipients and non‐recipients, both citizens and non‐citizens. Based on a systematic literature review, we identify three levels of analysis: activity, perceptions and expectations. A common thread through these levels is the bifurcated and hierarchical nature of relationships between social protection recipients on the one side and the state and non‐recipients on the other. Thus, the cross‐section of evidence does not conclusively support the oft‐assumed transformative potentials of social protection. Arguably, theoretical frameworks on activities, perceptions and expectations allow us to explore further the differentiated relationships shaped by social protection.