Proposed reforms of the social protection systems of Morocco and Tunisia in light of the impacts of the COVID-19 crisis

Abstract

This Policy Research Brief presents the reforms under way in the social protection systems of Tunisia and Morocco in light of the COVID-19 crisis. Although both countries have demonstrated political will and commitment to address coverage gaps, they still need to develop a proper legal framework and fiscal space to implement social protection floors in the coming years. The pandemic has affected reforms differently in the two countries: in a more ‘positive’ way in Morocco, while contributing to stalling changes in Tunisia.

Este Policy Research Brief apresenta as reformas em curso nos sistemas de proteção social da Tunísia e do Marrocos, considerando os impactos da crise da COVID-19. Apesar de ambos os países terem demonstrado vontade política e comprometimento para mitigar as falhas de cobertura, ainda precisam desenvolver marcos legais e espaço fiscal para implementar um piso de proteção social nos próximos anos. A pandemia afetou as reformas dos dois países de maneiras diferentes: de modo mais "positivo" no Marrocos, enquanto contribuiu para a estagnação das mudanças na Tunísia.