This rapid evidence review assesses different social protection/social security programmes and how different tax policies and tax reforms have been used in their financing. International evidence shows that the removal of ineffective tax subsidy policies (e.g. Jordan, Egypt, Morocco, Oman, etc.) and taxes on financial transactions (e.g. Brazil) have provided the necessary funds to launch/expand social protection programmes. Further, taxes on natural resources in resource-rich countries can support social spending and generate overall economic growth. For instance, the evidence from countries like Bolivia, Brazil, and Zambia shows the positive socio-economic effects that natural resource extraction can have.