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This paper examines the causal relationship between poverty reduction and economic growth in Swaziland during the period 1980-2011. Unlike some of the previous studies, the current study uses the newly developed ardl-bounds testing approach to co-integration, and the ecmbasedGranger causalitymethod to examine this linkage. The study also incorporates financial development as a third variable affecting both poverty reduction and economic growth - thereby leading to a trivariate model. The results of this study show that economic growth does not Grangercause poverty reduction in Swaziland - either in the short run or in the long run. Instead, the study finds a causal flow from poverty reduction to economic growth in the short run. These findings, however, are not surprising, given the high level of income inequality in Swaziland. Studies have shown that when the level of income inequality is too high, economic growth alone may not necessarily lead to poverty reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article aims to present recent changes in the macroeconomic policy framework in Brazil and its effects on social policy, particularly with regard to poverty reduction. From 2003 onwards, a new pattern of economic growth prevails, reducing poverty and inequality on the grounds of domestic market expansion and low income groups consumption. This paper also outlines the remaining challenges for achieving social equity and inclusion, highlighting a major issue in the pending agenda: a progressive tax reform in order to leverage the financing of universal social policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]