Public works programs examples

Trabajar is an example of a well-implemented public works program that, using a low wage rate and high labor-intensity techniques, ensured that poor households received a significant share of the program s benefits. 

If public works are generally well liked, the question arises as to why they play such a small or nonexistent role in some countries. Possible reasons are a lack of obvious open unemployment, repercussions from bad experience or corruption, or insufficient capacity. In rural areas in Pakistan, for example, the presence of large landlords m ht mask the presence of open periods of unemployment, and therefore demand for such programs is low. 

Adequacy of benefit level. Benchmarks will vary by program for example, social pensions could be compared with the poverty line, unemployment assistance with average wages and the poverty line, social assistance with the poverty line, wages for public works jobs with the market wage for similar work, and the like. 

What are unit costs For example, for public works, what is the share of unskilled labor in total costs For food programs, what is the cost per calorie provided For training programs, what is the cost per trainee How do unit costs compare with appropriate local benchmarks or good international practice ... 

---