⬆️ “Since 2014, universal access to social protection has been a shared goal of the ILO and the World Bank. However, the debate persists, as the World Bank interprets universal access not as universal benefits, but as ensuring support is available when needed—primarily, for those in poverty. At an operational level, this has led the World Bank to continue promoting poverty-targeted programs. The main argument for poverty targeting is that, with a limited budget, resources are more effectively spent on those most in need. Yet, the strength of this argument and the prevalence of poverty-targeted programs supported by development partners highlight the need to examine the drawbacks of poverty targeting—hence the pointed theme of this session.” - Gunnel Axelsson Nycander, Policy Advisor – Act Church of Sweden

The Arab Reform Initiative’s Social Protection Program is organizing its second Annual Regional Policy Forum, in partnership with Oxfam-MENA, around financing mechanisms for universal social protection systems in the Arab region. ☂  This Forum brings together researchers, practitioners, activists, and policymakers to share and discuss the latest research findings from ARI, partners of SPP’s Arab Region Hub for Social Protection, members of the Global Campaign for the Right to Social Security, and independent civil society at large. The aim of this year’s Forum is to offer a space for a multi-stakeholder dialogue looking into advancing evidence-based alternatives to debt and austerity that are feasible and tangible given the context-specificities of the different Arab countries. It also seeks to build on international success stories and lessons learned, and benefit from good practices of fiscal space strategies for universal social protection. 🔸 Details and Registration: lnkd.in/eFnYwJY3 #SocialProtection