Strategy launched to support ILO member states’ efforts to extend social protection to migrant workers and refugees

Geneva (LO News) — Migrant workers and refugees should be included in national and international social protection frameworks, said high-level speakers at a global webinar held by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the International Social Security Association (ISSA) on Tuesday.

The event, which was titled “Extending Social Protection to Migrant Workers, Refugees and their Families”, brought over 1000 policymakers and practitioners together in order to address one of the most pressing issues in global labour rights today.

The ILO estimates that 3.8 billion people lack access to social protection in the world, including millions of migrant workers and refugees worldwide.

Extending social protection to migrant workers and refugees is not just a matter of fairness. It is also a question of economic resilience, social justice, and human dignity

Shahra Razavi, Director of Social Protection Department at the ILO.

Speakers took part from Argentina, Cabo Verde, Jordan, Nepal, Oman, the Philippines, Spain, and from regional bodies, employers’ and workers’ organizations. They showcased innovative national strategies aimed at filling coverage gaps affecting migrants and refugees and making the case for universal social protection. The participants shared good practices, such as bilateral and multilateral social security agreements, inclusive legal reforms, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) solutions to facilitate portability and outreach.

They also affirmed the need for international cooperation, sustainable financing, and the active involvement of social partners to achieve universal social protection for all.

The outcomes of the discussion will inform future ILO policy advice and capacity-building initiatives, aiming to assist member states in closing coverage gaps and fulfilling the promise of leaving no one behind.

The webinar is part of ongoing ILO support to countries in designing and implementing inclusive social protection policies aligned with international standards, particularly ILO Convention No. 102 and Recommendation No. 202.

For more information and to access the event recording, visit the ILO and ISSA webinar pages below.