An innovative online platform that supports countries to build inclusive social protection systems through dynamic and interactive functions was launched on 9th April, 2018 in Bangkok by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP).
The user-friendly, Social Protection Toolbox, identifies national coverage gaps and provides countries with over 100 good practices for inspiration and cross-country learning. The Toolbox also features capacity and knowledge building, in-depth studies, learning modules, videos, as well as a quiz. The aim of the Toolbox is to support countries in Asia and the Pacific to better realize the potential social protection plays in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In simple and easy-to-understand ways, it explains the basic principles of social protection and the impact it can have on poverty reduction, social cohesion, economic growth and the environment.
The Toolbox also features two new e-learning modules, developed together with Development Pathways, showing how investing in inclusive social protection can accelerate progress towards the SDGs, why universal schemes are better at reaching the poor than targeted schemes, and what policy options to consider when designing inclusive schemes.
A series of additional tools are planned throughout the year such as two new e-learning tools on how to administer and finance social protection and how to advance social protection for persons with disabilities.