Implementing Social Protection Targets: Reaching the Hardest to Reach Almudena Fernandez Sustainable Development Cluster Bureau for Policy and Programme Support UNDP

Why focus on the hardest to reach Implement nationally appropriate social protection systems and measures for all, including floors, and by 2030 achieve substantial coverage of the poor and the vulnerable. (SDGs Target 1.3) Social protection systems that address and reduce inequality and social exclusion are essential for eradicating poverty and advancing the achievement of the MDGs. In this regard, we strongly encourage initiatives aimed at enhancing social protection for all people.(Rio +20, The future we want, paragraph 107)

Despite global expansion of social protection, certain population groups often are excluded of effective coverage (i.e. the extreme poor, indigenous groups, ethnic minorities, people living with disabilities, those dependent on natural resources, displaced, migrants). This can be due to limited information, but also to social or structural barriers including stigma, discrimination, social norms, lack of documentations, remote geographical location, etc. Also, a limited recognition of the specific vulnerabilities certain population groups face (i.e. those vulnerable to environmental degradation). Context: Social Exclusion and Inequality

HIV-Sensitive Social Protection in Asia- Pacific India. Advocated and provided technical support to expand the scope and inclusion criteria of existing social protection schemes. Pension schemes have been amended to include women widowed by AIDS, while free road transport, legal assistance and nutrition have been provided to PLHIV. Cambodia. PLHIV were included in the category of “special vulnerable groups” in Cambodia’s first National Social Protection Strategy. Myanmar. Currently carrying out a nation-wide survey on the socioeconomic impact of HIV in Myanmar. Plans to use the findings to advocate for mechanisms and policies to address unique circumstances in national discussions on universal health coverage.

Registration for People Living with Disabilities (PLWD) in Armenia In Armenia, the unemployment rate among PLWD is over 90%. 82% of PLWD do not receive any social support services except pension. The United Nations Partnership to Promote the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNPRPD) is supporting the Government of Armenia to revise Disability Certification procedures in line with the principles of UNPRPD and based on the conceptual framework of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF).

Sustainable Alternative Livelihoods in Indonesia Project which aims to strengthen community based watershed management, in collaboration with 101 community-based organization. In exchange for small grants members commit to undertaking land conservation activities, such as planting trees, constructing terraces, and engaging in other soil retention measures. Potential to transform productive livelihoods as well protecting, and adapting to changing climate conditions.

Final Remarks Leaving no one behind will require thinking about how to remove structural barriers and reach the hard to reach populations through social protection systems. This will require making social protection systems sensitive to the needs of excluded population groups. But also understanding and recognizing the various types of vulnerabilities faced by population groups.

Thank you