This paper assesses the effectiveness of the proxy means test (PMT) targeting
methodology. It brings together international evidence to show that it is both inaccurate
and arbitrary. The mechanism suffers from high in-built design errors, additional errors
introduced during implementation, and infrequent surveys, meaning that it cannot respond
to the dynamic nature of household incomes. It also generates conflict and divisions within
communities, ultimately weakening their cohesion. The paper argues that the PMT is
embedded within a neoliberal paradigm that favours low taxation and limited social
spending and concludes by noting that only by increasing investment in inclusive lifecycle
national social protection systems can all of those living in poverty effectively access
social security.