The politics of social protection do not enjoy as much of the focus of donors and UN agencies as the economics. But an understanding of the distribution of power between different social groups is crucial to the success and sustainability of schemes requiring ongoing funding paid for by general taxation.
Recognising this, The International Training Centre of the International Labour Organisation provided training on the topic of the political economy of ‘targeting’ of social protection led by Development Pathways’ Senior Social Policy Specialist Stephen Kidd. The training was part of a diversified training package at ITCILO’s Academy of Social Security and the Centre’s objective was to enhance the capacity of key actors in the social protection sector to build comprehensive and efficient national social protection systems.
The training offered participants a new understanding of how an analysis of the political settlements is key when designing and implementing social protection programmes. They were able to work towards an International Certification for Social Protection Analysts. Our trainer, Stephen Kidd, was invited back.