The Economics and Social Policy Research Journal publishes research that uses economic analysis to understand and improve social policy. Our scope spans applied and public economics, welfare and social protection, development, and the governance and institutions through which policy is made and delivered.

We welcome empirical evaluations of programmes and reforms, studies of poverty, inequality, and labour markets, and analyses of health, education, and social-welfare policy. Both rigorous quantitative work — including causal evaluation and econometric analysis — and well-grounded mixed-methods and comparative studies fall within scope, particularly research relevant to developing and transitional economies.

Manuscripts are assessed for analytical rigour, policy relevance, and the credibility of their evidence. Through open access the journal aims to inform a broad community of economists, social scientists, and policymakers, strengthening the link between robust evidence and the design of fair, effective, and sustainable public policy that improves living standards and social well-being.

We publish original empirical research, programme and policy evaluations, comparative studies, and well-grounded analytical contributions. Causal evidence and transparent methods are highly valued, as is attention to context in developing and transitional economies. Through open access, the journal serves economists, social scientists, and policymakers, strengthening the link between credible evidence and the design of social policy that reduces poverty, inequality, and disadvantage.

Topics Covered

• Applied & Public Economics
• Social Policy & Welfare
• Development Economics
• Governance & Institutions
• Labour & Inequality
• Health & Education Policy
• Programme Evaluation
• Poverty & Social Protection