Section Article

Evaluating Pandemic Stimulus Packages: A Social Policy Perspective on Economic Recovery in Developing Countries
Author(s): Prashant

Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly disrupted global economies disproportionately impacting developing countries with fragile financial systems and limited social safety nets. This study evaluates the effectiveness of pandemic stimulus packages introduced by various developing nations to mitigate economic and social crises. It focuses on the design implementation and outcomes of these packages emphasizing their role in addressing poverty unemployment and economic recovery. Using case studies from countries in Asia Africa and Latin America the research examines the allocation of funds towards healthcare direct cash transfers support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and job creation initiatives. The findings highlight significant disparities in policy effectiveness influenced by governance structures fiscal capacity and pre-existing socio-economic inequalities. While some countries successfully stabilized critical sectors others struggled with corruption mismanagement and inadequate targeting of vulnerable populations. The study also explores the unintended consequences of these policies such as inflation and widening income inequality and provides recommendations for improving future stimulus strategies. By adopting a social policy perspective this research underscores the importance of inclusive transparent and sustainable approaches to economic recovery in developing nations.