Facilitating transition between social assistance and social insurance in the Arab Region : conceptual framework and review of global good practices

Abstract

Presents a conceptual framework and a review of global good practices to improve the integration between social assistance programs and social insurance systems in Arab countries. The study addresses the challenges posed by high informality and low social protection coverage and proposes strategies to expand access to benefits, foster labor market formalization, and reduce socioeconomic vulnerabilities. Recommendations include structural reforms to integrate program financing, administration, and design, the creation of gradual transition mechanisms, the provision of subsidies and contributory incentives, and the strengthening of policies aimed at generating formal employment, with the ultimate goal of promoting more universal, inclusive, and sustainable social protection systems.