3.8 billion people within reach: A call for action on financing social protection:
SDG 1.3 upholds the promise of universal social protection by 2030. As the world confronts uncertain times with sluggish economic growth, political instability, geopolitical tensions, and an ever-evolving climate crisis, protecting and expanding social protection coverage is an essential and strategic investment. It delivers economic and fiscal returns, acts as both a safeguard and a catalyst for resilience, and is an essential tool for addressing recurring shocks and protracted crises. However, progress towards international commitments—such as the Addis Ababa Action Agenda and the SDGs—has been underwhelming.
For the first time, more than half of the world’s population (52.4%) is covered by at least one social protection benefit (SDG indicator 1.3.1). This is welcome progress. Still, an alarming 3.8 billion people remain unprotected with a US$552.3 billion annual financing gap for the five key social protection cash benefits (1.3% of GDP) in low- and middle-income countries. These gaps often reflect a lack of decisive policy decisions, arising from challenges at the intersection of political will, fiscal constraints, and financing difficulties, leaving social protection underfunded and vulnerable to competing priorities. The 4th International Conference on Financing for Development (FfD4) is a pivotal opportunity to move from rhetoric to action and mobilize necessary financing that turns commitments into action.
To ensure progress towards the SDGs, including ending poverty in all its forms everywhere (SDG 1) and the realization of universal social protection (SDG 1.3), USP2030 and the UN Special Rapporteur on extreme poverty and human rights propose four key actions for a strategic investment push for sustainable development in the renewed global financing framework:
- Include a concrete and measurable commitment to expand social protection coverage.
- Recognize the role and relevance of social protection as an essential component of action, including in response to climate and conflict-related risks.
- Ensure sustainable financing in all contexts.
- Tap into innovative mechanisms for financing.
