Universal access to social protection is a human right and a moral imperative. It is also a potent policy tool to reduce vulnerability, address social exclusion, poverty and inequality. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development underscores the importance of social protection for the attainment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Governments have committed to implementing social protection floors and systems for all. 

The world is however far from reaching this goal. Access to social protection is uneven and varies widely between countries, groups and individuals depending on their age, gender, disability or migrant status, race or ethnicity. Gaps in access and insufficient benefits challenge the effectiveness of social protection to promote inclusion and resilience and leave no one behind. Understanding the barriers that diverse groups face in accessing social protection is necessary if substantial coverage is to be ensured for all nations, peoples and segments of society.

This webinar discussed the main findings of the Report on the World Social Situation 2018: Promoting Inclusion through Social Protection. In particular, it addressed the following questions: What role does social protection play in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)? Is social protection an effective policy tool to promote inclusion/leave no one behind? Who enjoys social protection coverage—and who does not? How can social protection programmes be designed and implemented to be sensitive to the needs of disadvantaged groups?

Presenter:

Marta Roig, Chief, Emerging Trends and Issues in Development Section, Division for Inclusive Social Development (DISD), UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA)

Discussant: 

Stephen Kidd, Senior Social Policy Specialist, Development Pathways

Moderator:

Simone Cecchini, Senior Social Affairs Officer, Social Development Division, UN Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean