Focuses on various public sector job creation programs in eight industrialized countries. Each is examined from the following perspectives: objectives and target groups; sponsors and projects; participants; organization; time limits, training and wages; effects of these programs; and policy implications. (CT)

Examines changes in economic conditions and policy that have influenced special employment programs. Reviews and assesses public works programs, job creation, subsidized schemes, self-employment, and welfare-oriented programs. Discusses two critical issues: targeting and program duration. (SK)

Analysis of 101 projects in 7 public works programs (PWPs) in Western Cape Province in the mid-1990s estimated the public expenditure needed to transfer resources to the poor. Comparison of the result with that generated by a hypothetical, untargeted transfer showed that most of the PWPs outperform the benchmarks. (Contains 26 references.) (JOW)

This article draws on the findings of seven country studies of youth employment programs in Africa (Botswana, Somalia, Zambia, Malawi, Kenya, Ethiopia, and Mauritius). Considered are public service/public works programs, agricultural development, employable skills development and vocationalization of education, and national youth services. (SK)