ESCWA Publication: E/ESCWA/CL2.GPID/2026/9/V.1/SOM
Country: Federal Republic of Somalia
Publication Type: Reports & studies
Cluster: Gender Justice, Population and Inclusive Development
Focus Area: Inclusive development
Initiatives: Reducing inequalities
SDGs: Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities
Keywords: Financing, Government spending policy, Labour market, Macroeconomics, Population, Poverty, Recommendations, Social policy, Social safety nets, Social security, Social security legislation, Somalia, Technical cooperation
Social protection landscape and perspectives: Comprehensive national review of the system and reforms of Somalia
October 2026
Over the past decade, Somalia has made important progress in establishing the foundations of a government-led social protection system. Key developments include the adoption of the National Social Protection Policy, the introduction of the Baxnaano flagship safety-net programme, and the development of core delivery infrastructure. Social protection has also become increasingly embedded in national development planning.
The present report provides an overview of the social protection system in Somalia and its main programmes, highlighting key achievements and reform needs. It outlines policy options for strengthening coverage, effectiveness, sustainability and national ownership, with a view to building a more integrated, inclusive and resilient social protection system.
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Inclusive development
Over the past decade, Somalia has made important progress in establishing the foundations of a government-led social protection system. Key developments include the adoption of the National Social Protection Policy, the introduction of the Baxnaano flagship safety-net programme, and the development of core delivery infrastructure. Social protection has also become increasingly embedded in national development planning.
The present report provides an overview of the social protection system in Somalia and its main programmes, highlighting key achievements and reform needs. It outlines policy options for strengthening coverage, effectiveness, sustainability and national ownership, with a view to building a more integrated, inclusive and resilient social protection system.
