Experts in social science say social protection plays a pivotal role in fostering economic stability, reducing poverty, and promoting social equity. The program encompasses a range of policies and programs designed to provide financial and resource support to individuals and families, particularly in times of crisis or vulnerability.
The significance of ensuring social protection cannot be overstated, as it contributes to the well-being of societies and the enhancement of human dignity. According to these experts, one of the primary functions of social protection is to bolster economic stability. By providing a safety net for individuals facing unemployment, illness, or other unforeseen circumstances, social protection programs help to lessen the burden. This is crucial for economic growth as it prevents sharp declines in demand that can lead to recessions. Moreover, social protection can stimulate local economies by ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to essential goods and services.
Social protection is instrumental in reducing poverty. Programs such as cash transfers, food assistance, and unemployment benefits directly address the needs of the most vulnerable populations. By offering financial support, these initiatives enable individuals and families to meet their basic needs, such as food, healthcare, and education. Long-term access to social protection can break the cycle of poverty, allowing beneficiaries to invest in their futures and contribute to society.
Ensuring social protection is also vital for promoting social equity. Vulnerable groups, including women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities, often face systemic barriers that hinder their access to resources and opportunities. Social protection mechanisms can level the playing field by providing targeted support to these groups, thereby fostering inclusivity. Policies designed to address gender disparities, for example, can empower women economically and socially, leading to broader societal benefits.
In an increasingly uncertain world, the importance of social protection becomes even more pronounced. Natural disasters, economic downturns, and health crises, such as pandemics, can disproportionately affect the most vulnerable segment of the society. Social protection systems provide a crucial buffer in such situations, enabling individuals and families to cope with shocks and recover more swiftly.
Ethiopia has been undertaking various activities targeting to ensuring social protection through the implementation of numerous approaches. Accordingly, its performance has been reviewed in collaboration with stakeholders.
On the occasion, the World Bank (WB) applauded Ethiopia’s significant progress in advancing social protection endeavors. According to the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs’ social media page, the commendation from the World Bank came following a constructive discussion it held with senior leaders of the Ministry.
The World Bank’s Country Director for Eritrea, Ethiopia, South Sudan and Sudan, Maryam Salim said that the ongoing initiatives in Ethiopia represent a significant success. On the occasion, senior officials from the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs were engaged in productive discussions with Salim and her delegation, focusing on social protection and associated matters.
The primary aim of these discussions, as learnt, was to explore existing activities and identify new avenues for collaboration within the social protection sector, thereby fortifying the partnership between the Ministry and the World Bank.
During these discussions, Women and Social Affairs Minister, Ergogie Tesfaye (PhD) stated the government’s commitment to collaborating with the World Bank in the design and implementation of urban and rural development safety net and employment programs. These initiatives are intended to facilitate sustainable improvements in the lives of vulnerable populations, with a keen emphasis on achieving tangible results, Minister Ergogie noted the successful execution of the Special Needs Assistance Program, which has been developed with the support of the World Bank.
She highlighted that her Ministry is currently reviewing the national social protection policy and strategy, establishing a comprehensive beneficiary registration system, and enhancing support programs for citizens requiring special assistance. Furthermore, the Minister indicated that new social protection initiatives specifically targeting youth are in the design phase. She expressed gratitude to the World Bank for its substantial support, which has been instrumental in the program’s success.
Maryam Salim, during her visit, reiterated that Ethiopia’s social protection efforts exemplify a successful model that could serve as an inspiration for other nations. She emphasized that the World Bank’s commitment to continuing its collaboration with the Ministry to further strengthen Ethiopia’s social protection framework and to develop future programs aimed at enhancing the welfare of its citizens.
In an experience sharing meeting the Ministry of Women and Social Affairs held with the South Sudan Social Protection “learning visit team” a few months ago, Minister Ergogie Tesfaye (PhD) emphasized Ethiopia’s due attention to social protection as a core component of national development, keeping it at the center of public policy,
According to the Minister, in Ethiopia, social protection is a priority for the government, to safeguarding citizens during and beyond their working years. The government also sees social protection as an essential tool for sustaining peace and security at the local level by reinforcing social bonds and social contracts between people and government.
Accordingly, the country is working untiringly to improve the lives of its citizens; and now earned it commendation from the WB.
In conclusion, the ongoing collaboration between the Ethiopian government and the World Bank in the social protection sector not only underscores Ethiopia’s commitment to improving the lives of its vulnerable populations but also sets a benchmark for other countries in the region. The practical implementation of these programs highlights the potential for sustainable development through collaborative partnerships, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable society.
Finally, since ensuring social protection extends far beyond immediate financial assistance, it is a cornerstone of sustainable development and social cohesion. By mitigating poverty, promoting equity, and enhancing resilience, social protection systems contribute to the overall stability and prosperity of societies. As global challenges continue to evolve, the commitment to strengthening social protection frameworks will be essential in building a more just and equitable world for all.
BY MENGISTEAB TESHOME
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 12 APRIL 2025
