The International Labour Organization has announced that its flagship program, aimed at establishing social protection floors for everyone, has reached a significant landmark. Since 2021, this initiative has extended essential support services to more than 55 million individuals.
The accomplishment was commemorated during the program’s yearly Development Partners gathering in Geneva, which saw participation from 55 delegates representing governments, workers’ organizations, and employer groups, along with more than 1,400 online attendees.
The ILO stated in a release that the Flagship Programme, initiated in 2016, has played a crucial role in enhancing global social protection frameworks. This program has aided in expanding coverage, boosting adequacy, and providing extensive benefits across different regions.
The program’s second phase (2021–2025) surpassed projections significantly, implementing 149 organizational modifications throughout involved nations—almost twice the original objective of 80.
At the same time, it pointed out that these modifications encompass new legislation, policy adjustments, and the growth of social security programs, which currently shield millions of workers and marginalized groups.
At the meeting, ILO’s Deputy Director-General for Employment and Social Protection, Mia Seppo, highlighted the program’s influence while recognizing the challenges that remain.
“For the first time, our World Social Protection Report released in September 2024 indicates that 52.4 percent of the world’s population has access to at least one form of social protection. This statistic reflects our collaborative endeavors,” she stated.
Nevertheless, she emphasized that 3.8 billion individuals still lack coverage and urged for a stronger effort towards global social protection systems.
She highlighted that one of the program’s notable achievements is in Côte d’Ivoire, where a government-initiated awareness campaign, backed by the ILO and the World Bank, resulted in one million self-employed workers joining the country’s social security system.
The Minister of Employment and Social Protection for Côte d’Ivoire, Adama Kamara, stated, “This achievement highlights the efficacy of public policies and the dedication of development allies in attaining comprehensive social protection.”
At the same time, it was pointed out that the ILO’s Flagship Programme aids in achieving SDG targets 1.3 and 3.8 through initiatives aimed at widespread social security systems and health care access. This program operates in 50 nations spanning 16 different themes, addressing issues such as precarious work conditions, aging societies, and environmental shifts.
“With just one year remaining in its current phase, it is set to expand social protection coverage to 60 million individuals,” the statement read.
The discussions at the Geneva conference also covered Phase III (2026–2030), with the objective of narrowing the social protection shortfall before the 2030 SDG target date.
Marc Bichler, Luxembourg’s ambassador to the UN in Geneva, stated, “Social protection isn’t merely a safeguard; it’s an investment in stable, inclusive, and resilient societies.”
In the face of economic instability, environmental shifts due to climate change, and rising geopolitical pressures, this program aims to provide essential support to vulnerable populations. By working together and developing new policies, development organizations aim to create a more inclusive society.
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