In order to determine what is known about the effect of social protection programs on social cohesiveness in the region and what evidence gaps exist, this research looks at the Sahelian knowledge base as it currently exists. According to program participants, social protection programs frequently increased social cohesiveness. These improvements included increased trust, collaboration for the common good, participation in local groups, and a stronger feeling of inclusive identity. The perception of programs’ legality and fairness among those who are not beneficiaries differs depending on the situation. Lastly, social disputes and tensions among community members may arise from the beneficiary selection process, underscoring the significance of comprehending the impact of pre-existing contextual elements. In terms of data gaps, outside of a few qualitative studies that might not be fully representative of the programs overall, there is little to no information about the social cohesion effects of social security systems on non-beneficiaries. Furthermore, most studies concentrate on social cohesiveness that happens horizontally within communities; however, little is known about how social cohesion in the Sahel influences relations between citizens and the government (vertical cohesion) as well as across other communities (out-groups).

https://documents.worldbank.org/en/publication/documents-reports/documentdetail/099720109192433700/idu1cd6420bd1de081469d19884176460e296710