Public policy in the context of social welfare aims to address societal issues, improve living conditions, and promote the overall well-being of individuals and communities.

While environmental protection is a crucial policy area, it is typically not considered a core component of social welfare policy, which primarily focuses on human well-being and social issues.

A safety net in social welfare policy refers to a system of government programs and services that aim to provide basic support and assistance to individuals and families facing economic hardship or other vulnerabilities.

Student loans are typically not considered a social welfare program, as they are primarily intended to provide financial assistance for education rather than addressing basic needs or vulnerabilities.

Means-testing is a process used in social welfare programs to determine eligibility for benefits based on an individual's or family's income and assets. It aims to ensure that benefits are targeted to those who are most in need and have limited resources.

While increased government bureaucracy and complexity can be a challenge in some cases, it is not a universal issue associated with social welfare programs. The other options are more commonly cited challenges.

Social justice in the context of social welfare policy refers to the pursuit of equal opportunities and outcomes for all individuals, regardless of their background, circumstances, or social status.

Protecting individual liberty and freedom from government interference is not typically a goal of social welfare policy, which primarily focuses on addressing societal issues and promoting well-being.

Evidence-based policymaking in social welfare involves using research, data, and empirical evidence to inform policy decisions and interventions. It aims to ensure that policies are effective, efficient, and based on the best available knowledge.

Public opinion polls are not typically used as a primary method for evaluating the effectiveness of social welfare programs. Randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and cost-benefit analysis are more commonly employed for this purpose.

Universal basic income is a concept that proposes providing a regular, unconditional cash payment to all citizens, regardless of their income or employment status. It aims to address poverty, inequality, and economic insecurity.

Enhancing government bureaucracy and complexity is not a potential benefit of universal basic income. The other options are more commonly cited potential benefits.

Social investment refers to investing in programs and services that promote human capital and social well-being, such as education, healthcare, childcare, and job training. It aims to improve the long-term prospects of individuals and communities.

Increasing government bureaucracy and complexity is not a potential benefit of social investment. The other options are more commonly cited potential benefits.

International cooperation in addressing social welfare issues involves sharing best practices, lessons learned, and resources across countries. It aims to promote effective and efficient policies and interventions to improve social well-being on a global scale.