It enjoyed robust economic growth over most of the 2000s, which helped narrow the income gap with OECD countries. Growth has slowed since 2012, however (OECD, 2015b). The large conditional cash-transfer programme Bolsa Familia, which is recognised as an international best practice, has helped halve the number of people living in extreme poverty (bolsa means grant or stipend). Health service coverage and educational outcome have also improved, but income inequality and territorial disparities are large. Brazil needs to restore strong growth while continuing to address social challenges and enhance conservation and sustainable use of its environmental assets.