Public policy can help reduce poverty and promote more inclusive growth. But to be effective, policies must be supported by the citizens they are meant to serve. And they must be based on evidence.

IDRC’s Social and Economic Policy program works to help developing countries create strong, informed policies and the right environment for change.

To do so, we support research focused on

• building accountable states and empowering citizens
• promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth
• strengthening independent policy research organizations

Gender is central to all our programming. Within our programs, we also fund applied research to gain new insights into the ways in which information and communication technologies are transforming development and associated policies.

Through our work, we collaborate with developing-country researchers and policymakers to

• build a solid, self-sustaining base of research and evidence
• support and communicate research findings on issues of immediate policy concern
• support public accountability by helping researchers and policy research institutions to participate in local, national, and international policy debates

Our research thrusts