Karachi: Pakistan is making strides towards a more robust and inclusive social protection system with the backing of the European Union (EU) and Germany, as policymakers, experts, and international partners convened in Karachi for the Second National Social Protection Conference.
According to a statement by Press Information Department, the conference was supported by the EU and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), aiming to foster an adaptive, data-driven, and climate-resilient framework for social protection in Pakistan. Hosted by GIZ, the event was organized in collaboration with federal and provincial governments and in partnership with notable international organizations such as the KfW Development Bank, World Bank, Asian Development Bank, and United Nations.
As the conference drew to a close, stakeholders reiterated their commitment to advancing social protection through coordinated policies, data-driven strategies, and sustainable financing. Building on the success of the inaugural conference in 2023, this year’s gathering focused on strengthening federal-provincial coordination, integrating climate resilience, and enhancing digital innovation in social protection initiatives.
Syed Nasir Hussain Shah, Provincial Minister for Planning, Development, and Energy, emphasized Sindh’s commitment to adaptive social protection as a tool for reducing vulnerabilities and responding to crises. He outlined various initiatives, including the Sindh Social Protection Authority and the MAMTA Programme, which integrate climate resilience with social protection.
Ms. Meriem El Harouchi, First Secretary of the EU Delegation to Pakistan, underscored the EU’s dedication to adaptive social protection, highlighting key outcomes such as the Charter for Social Protection. She emphasized that social protection is a long-term investment in economic growth and human capital.
Senator Rubina Khalid, Chairperson of the Benazir Income Support Programme, reiterated Pakistan’s resolve to expand its social protection framework, noting the program’s evolution into Asia’s largest social safety net since its inception in 2008.
Dr. Ruediger Lotz, German Consul General, reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to inclusive development in Pakistan, emphasizing the importance of partnerships and innovation in advancing social protection reforms.
Over the course of three days, experts from various sectors, including social protection, climate change, and finance, engaged in discussions on governance and sustainable livelihoods. International organizations and development agencies shared insights and best practices, aiming to translate discussions into tangible improvements for Pakistan’s social protection system.