Abstract

This article examines the implementation of proximity programmes in the Global South, particularly through Chile's Familias programme, to investigate the challenges faced by frontline professionals in weak institutional contexts. Drawing on interviews with Integral Family Supports implementing the programme, the study reveals that relational and spatial proximity are used to mitigate institutional weaknesses, compensating for the lack of available programmes and services. Whilst these proximate relationships provide families with emotional support, containment and motivation, they also temporarily reconfigure and heal State-citizen relations by humanising and bridging the public-private divide. However, these compensatory practises enable the programme to function despite deep structural deficiencies. In doing so, they risk obscuring institutional shortcomings whilst potentially reinforcing the very inequalities the programme aims to address. The study's findings offer valuable lessons for countries from the Global North undergoing welfare retrenchment and activation transformations, highlighting the potential risks of relying on proximate programme strategies in the absence of strong institutional support.