This project was made possible through the generous support of the International Labour Organization.
The project examined how international development finance supports the expansion of social protection systems across low- and middle-income countries, analysing trends at the global, regional, and national levels. The research provides one of the first comprehensive assessments of Official Development Assistance (ODA) dedicated to social protection and identifies important financing gaps, regional disparities, and opportunities for stronger international solidarity. The findings directly inform ongoing debates surrounding the financing of universal social protection, the Global Accelerator on Jobs and Social Protection, and discussions on innovative financing mechanisms. Through close collaboration with the ILO, the project aims to contribute evidence that is being used in international policy dialogue on sustainable financing for social protection. Beyond its academic contribution, the project strengthens UNU-MERIT's position as a leading research partner on global social policy and development finance.
