Social Protection Policy and Poverty Reduction: Evaluating Welfare Programs for Marginalized Communities

Abstract

This study examines how social protection policy contributes to poverty reduction through welfare programs for marginalized communities. It aims to evaluate the effectiveness of welfare interventions in improving household resilience and reducing vulnerability. A qualitative descriptive case study design was employed because it allows an in-depth understanding of policy implementation, beneficiary experience, and local governance dynamics within a specific social context. The research was conducted in Cilegon City, Banten Province, Indonesia, selected for its coexistence of industrial growth and persistent urban poverty. Eighteen informants were purposively selected, comprising government officials, community leaders, program beneficiaries, and social facilitators, because they possessed direct knowledge of policy delivery and lived experience of welfare access. The findings indicate that welfare programs such as cash assistance, food support, and health and education subsidies effectively eased short-term hardship, yet their contribution to long-term poverty reduction remained limited by targeting inaccuracies, fragmented coordination, and weak empowerment components. The study recommends integrated, data-based, and participatory social protection systems that combine assistance with capability building and livelihood support to achieve more sustainable poverty reduction.