This video playlist brings together expert voices from Somalia, Sudan and Syria who came together among other key stakeholders to discuss the role of social protection in fragile and conflict-affected settings.
Saleiman Umar, Director General of the Ministry of Finance in Somalia discussed how social protection systems act as safety nets which stabilise communities, and why they are essential in responding to climate shocks in Somalia. Saleiman also emphasised the importance of working together, building common approaches and goals to strengthen these systems collectively.
Lena Maghoub, Convenor/Coordination Lead at Sudan Social Protection Alliance, defined social protection as people being able to meet their basic needs. Lena asserts the importance of supporting women-led and youth organisations that step in after crises, and emphasises the need for inclusive, shock-responsive social protection systems that are equitable.
Bahjat Hajjar, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labour in Syria, discusses why social protection programmes must be aligned with humanitarian needs and early crisis responses. Bahjat also explores how new social contracts can help reconnect communities in Syria, supporting people to become more resilient and productive.
Across all three interviews, participants emphasise a common theme: that investing in social protection is ultimately an investment in stability.