Social protection response to the COVID-19 crisis: options for developing countries

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Economics
• Social Policy

Background:

• COVID-19 public health measures, like movement restrictions, severely impact vulnerable households' livelihoods.
• Governments globally are implementing emergency economic measures to create safety nets for affected populations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To overview policies for a comprehensive social protection strategy in low- and middle-income countries.
• To argue for a broader patchwork of solutions to ensure extensive coverage of emergency safety nets.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing and potential social protection policies.
• Analysis of policy examples adopted by various countries.
• Examination of strategies involving social insurance, social assistance, and local/non-state institutions.

Main Results:

• Low- and middle-income countries can achieve extensive safety net coverage through diverse policy combinations.
• Strategies include expanding social insurance and building on existing social assistance.
• Involving local governments and non-state actors is crucial for reaching hard-to-reach vulnerable groups.

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive social protection strategy requires a multi-faceted approach tailored to country contexts.
• Leveraging existing structures and partnerships can enhance the effectiveness and reach of emergency economic measures.
• Policy recommendations focus on adaptability and inclusivity for vulnerable populations during crises.