The pandemic is far from over. Countries across the world are still grappling with the health crisis and socio-economic consequences of COVID-19.

Did you know that one in two people in the world do not benefit from any form of social protection? In the context of a global emergency, we need stronger advocates for social protection systems with full coverage.

Here are a few reasons why:

Well-designed and financed social protection systems are powerful buffers against poverty, inequality, insecurity and avoidable ill-health.

​​​​​​A minimum level of universal social protection is affordable in almost all countries except the poorest, which would require temporary international help.

​​​​​Countries with a vaccine are better equipped to deal with a crisis than countries who have to resort to ad hoc treatments. COVID-19 is a unique opportunity to recognize and elevate the role of social protection.

​​​​​​ILO conventions are standards of good, globally accepted practice that trigger positive developments. A universally ratified convention on social protection would ensure that the issue stays on the global development agenda.

​​​​​​At a time when the world is in the grip of another global crisis, we can’t miss the opportunity to set new standards and levels of good practice. We can’t let 8 billion people stumble into the next global, regional, national, or local crisis without a clear solution.

This story was adapted from a longer piece by Michael Cichon, former President of the International Council on Social Welfare