ids.ac.uk (16.10.2023) This article examines the challenges and opportunities that exist for the production of knowledge and the design of evidence-based policies which aim at achieving more equitable and inclusive social protection systems in the Arab region. The article builds on the experiences of researchers and activists following the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic and considers the challenges they faced.

Arab Reform Initiative (June 2023) Most Arab countries are currently experiencing a critical juncture in their history, encompassing not only political, social, and economic aspects but also legal dimensions. In contrast to many other regions, Arab societies are undergoing significant transformations, influenced by two fundamental factors: the digital revolution and economic globalization, and their wide-ranging social implications.

worldbank.org (03.10.2023) The COVID-19 response in many Sub-Saharan African countries included the rapid deployment of social protection programs leveraging digital systems to counteract the income losses that were disproportionately experienced by urban informal populations.

pensionpolicyinternational.com (17.10.2023) India’s youthful population is often described as a key strength of the economy. India is among the youngest emerging market nations, and will remain so in the near future—a demographic dividend that makes it an attractive investment destination. According to the United Nations, a country is considered to be “ageing” if the share of the population over the age of 65 is more than 7%, “aged” when the share exceeds 14%, and “super-aged” when it crosses 20%.

iamexpat.de (18.10.2023) For an increasing number of retirees, Germany’s state pension payments are not sufficient to keep up with the rising cost of living. While the Left Party are calling for a 1.200-euro per month pension, the VdK argue that insecure working conditions lie at the heart of the problem.

worldbank.org (05.10.2023) This paper offers three key contributors to the excising literature. Firstly, it reviewsthe use of technology across each phase of delivering social protection and labor (SPL) benefits and services. Secondly, it reviews evidence on potential outcomes arising from digitalization initiatives, and identifies factors and conditions that facilitate successful design and implementation. Lastly, the paper outlines a conceptual framework for different digitalizing pathways.

worldbank.org (01.09.2023) This case study, jointly authored by the Government of Togo and the World Bank, documents the innovative features of the NOVISSI program and posits some directions for the way forward. The study examines how Togo leveraged artificial intelligence and machine learning methods to prioritize the rural poor in the absence of a shock-responsive social protection delivery system and a dynamic social registry. It also discusses the main challenges of the model and the risks and implications of implementing such a program.

consilium.europa.eu (09.10.2023) Self-employed workers are key players in European economy and innovation. Therefore, we need to ensure and improve their social protection coverage across Europe in order to ensure decent working and living conditions for them. Now, more than ever, we need a socially robust and a socially oriented Europe. José Luis Escrivá, Spain’s acting Minister for Inclusion, Social Security and Migration In over half the Member States the self-employed were not covered by all branches of social protection in 2022.

ILO (June 2023) An analysis of existing barriers and good practices in light of international social security standards. This research paper aims to examine barriers to the social security of migrant workers in the Arab region, identify current practices and chart possible avenue for progressive reform.

OECD (29.09.2023) Spain has a high share of the working age population at risk of poverty or social exclusion and a high incidence of child poverty. While Spain has introduced a minimum income at the national level, social inclusion policies are the responsibility of the regions. At present, the coverage of the minimum income remains low and there are many differences in the design and implementation of social inclusion policies across regions, especially as a number of regions do not develop social inclusion strategies.