Abstract

NARRO ROBLES, José; MOCTEZUMA NAVARRO, David  and  DE LA FUENTE STEVENS, Diego. Setbacks and Challenges for Social Policy in Mexico. Prob. Des [online]. 2013, vol.44, n.174, pp.09-34. ISSN 0301-7036.

Programs and strategies to fight poverty, inequality and social marginalization have had a variety of approaches and scopes, particularly since 1970. However, official figures on extreme poverty indicate that social development policies and programs oriented towards overcoming poverty have been unable to reverse growth in this area. It is time to review and adjust social policy in the framework of a new economic growth strategy focused on social equality. Although important, Mexico cannot make its sole priority the maintenance of macroeconomic balance. Rather, collective welfare and social stability within the country must take precedence. Consequently, fiscal equilibrium must not take priority over social imbalances. In other words, there is an urgent need for a development model oriented towards social and human aspects to generate economic growth, reduce inequalities and foster social cohesion. This is our challenge.

Keywords : poverty; inequality; social policy; programs to combat poverty; social development.