Fiscal austerity is typically implemented during times of economic crisis or recession, when government debt levels have become unsustainable and there is a need to restore confidence in the economy. However, the implementation of fiscal austerity policies can have negative effects on economic growth and can lead to social and political unrest. This is because austerity measures typically involve cuts to public services, reductions in government subsidies, and/or increases in taxes, which can hurt households and businesses that rely on government spending.

Critics of fiscal austerity argue that it can lead to a vicious cycle of lower economic growth, higher unemployment, and lower tax revenues, which can ultimately worsen the government's fiscal position. Advocates of fiscal austerity argue that it is necessary to avoid the long-term negative effects of high government debt, which can lead to inflation, currency devaluation, and financial instability.

Overall, the debate over the effectiveness of fiscal austerity policies remains controversial, with proponents and critics offering competing views on their impact on economic growth, employment, and social welfare.