The article argues that targeted cash transfers represent a feasible, scalable mechanism to end extreme poverty, noting that previous growth-based models have stalled since 2015. Evidence from existing evaluations demonstrates that unconditional cash transfers positively impact consumption, health, and education without discouraging labor force participation. To move beyond small pilots, the authors propose initiating a national-scale "proof-of-concept" program, funded by private capital and embedded within a government structure. This approach is crucial not only for immediate poverty reduction but also for generating the necessary evidence to build state capacity and enable global replication of the model.
Introducing the IRS Spotlight
English Summary
Brookings has launched the "IRS Spotlight," a new resource providing accessible data and analysis on federal tax administration, addressing concerns about declining IRS performance and data accessibility. The Spotlight compiles data from various sources, including the IRS, Treasury Inspector General, and Taxpayer Advocate, highlighting issues like workforce reductions, leadership turnover, and data transparency challenges. This initiative aims to ensure continued public access to vital information about the IRS, particularly given recent data removal from official websites. The Spotlight's existence underscores the need for independent oversight and transparency regarding IRS operations and performance.
Related Entries
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2.Health outcomes in rural America: A prevention-to-crisis view on determinants of health, chronic diseases, and economic consequences (Brookings)
Rural health disparities are driven by a complex cycle where poor health and limited economic opportunity reinforce each other, weakening community vitality and local economies. The research argues that outcomes are primarily shaped not just by clinical access, but by upstream social determinants such as transportation barriers, food insecurity, poverty, and lack of social infrastructure. Policy must therefore adopt an integrated 'prevention-to-crisis' approach, recognizing that effective interventions require building trust through community-led models that link health care with workforce development and economic stability. Addressing these structural constraints necessitates policies that treat public health and local economic growth as fundamentally interdependent.
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The 25th anniversary of 9/11 necessitates a comprehensive assessment of how the attacks permanently reshaped U.S. national security, foreign policy, and domestic governance. The analysis argues that policymakers must move beyond the initial 'war on terror' framework to understand how modern threats are evolving through emerging technologies and shifting transnational networks. Key discussions will focus on reassessing the lasting impacts of 9/11 across economic, defense, and diplomatic spheres. Consequently, strategic policy recommendations involve adapting U.S. global engagement strategies to address complex, technologically advanced terrorist challenges rather than relying on post-2001 paradigms.
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The Brookings analysis argues that the abrupt expiration of the expanded Child Tax Credit (CTC) was a primary driver of deepened economic pessimism among American families, contributing significantly to the 'vibecession' despite strong underlying economic indicators. Evidence shows that when the temporary benefit reverted in 2022, consumer sentiment dropped sharply, particularly for lower-income households and those with multiple children. This suggests that the loss of predictable income streams—not just general inflation—is a major factor undermining public confidence. Policymakers must recognize this 'cliff effect,' ensuring that any temporary or targeted economic support is evaluated not only during its active period but also considering the potential negative impact of its withdrawal.
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Europe has emerged as a global leader in sanctioning Russia's 'shadow fleet,' significantly increasing its vessel designations and improving coordination with the UK and U.S. However, the analysis finds that these European sanctions alone have had only a limited impact on overall Russian oil exports from the Baltic Sea due to gaps in coverage. To maximize pressure on Russian revenue, the report argues that comprehensive action requires either the U.S. implementing broader secondary sanctions or Europe aggressively holding flag states accountable for oversight of flagged vessels. Collectively, these measures are necessary to significantly strengthen the enforcement of G7 price caps and constrain Russia's oil trade.