ESCWA, in collaboration with the ILO Regional Office for the Arab States, convened the 12th expert group meeting on Social Protection Reforms in the Arab Region. The meeting brought together senior policymakers, technical experts, and regional and international partners to examine the socioeconomic impacts of ongoing crises in the Arab region and the role of social protection in addressing rising vulnerabilities.
Participants discussed the compounded effects of conflict, inflation, and labour market disruptions on poverty and household well-being, with particular attention to low-income households, displaced populations, informal workers, and persons with disabilities. The discussions highlighted the importance of comprehensive social protection responses despite fiscal constraints and the need for adaptable national systems capable of responding to overlapping shocks.
The outcomes will feed into the analytical work of ESCWA, policy dialogue, and technical support to member States, with the aim of strengthening social protection systems and building their resilience.
