It has been observed in Central European countries in general and in Romania in particular that during transition strong social ties connecting relatives, immediate friends and associates have become stronger, while the weak ties connecting individuals and households through professional and social associations have become weaker. In this context, the poor are reported to be falling out of both types of associations.

This title analyses patterns of economic and social interactions that sustain the poor or, alternatively, isolate them yet further from other households, from the communities in which they live and, by extension, from social networks and economic opportunities. The study also assesses interactions of the poor with local and central government in terms of the level of trust and satisfaction with public officials, the level of involvement in public actions and public decision-making and the ability of local governments to respond to the needs of their poorer constituency, especially in providing social assistance and other Minimum Income Guarantee benefits.