The report titled “Universal social protection in changing labour markets: Protecting workers in all types of employment” calls for strong social protection systems for all types of workers.

• ILO defines social protection as the set of policies and programmes designed to prevent and reduce poverty and vulnerability across a person's life cycle.
  • It includes child and family benefits, maternity protection, unemployment support, health protection, old-age benefits, etc.

Why is Social protection needed?

• Prevent Poverty: Establishes dependable systems that reduce vulnerability and reinforce people’s capabilities. E.g. subsidized food grains under PDS.
• Build Resilience to Crisis: Strong social systems are deemed essential for fostering stability amidst climate change, technological shifts, and demographic changes. E.g. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana.
• Economic Stability: Globally, social security contributions accounted for 18.8% of total taxation in 2019.
• Reduces Gender Inequalities: Well-designed, gender-responsive social protection systems help offset labour market inequalities. E.g. Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana.

Way Forward (suggested by ILO)

• Guarantee Universal Access: ensuring comprehensive benefits for all workers including self-employed, temporary, and part-time workers.
• Combine Schemes for Universal Coverage: Involves integrating broad-based social insurance with tax-financed schemes (like universal child benefits and social pensions).
• Ensure National Social Protection Floor: Guaranteeing a basic level of income security and effective access to adequate healthcare for all.
• Others: Implementing Gender Responsive systems, promoting policy coherence, etc.