Karachi (03 March 2025):
Three days Second National Social Protection Conference commenced in Karachi, bringing together key stakeholders from the federal and provincial governments, development partners, and social protection institutions to drive forward Pakistan’s social protection agenda. With the support and funding of the European Union (EU) and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the conference aims to strengthen collaboration by improving Governance , digital innovation, and financial sustainability in Pakistan’s social protection system.
Delivering the keynote address, German Consul General Mr. Ruediger Lotz reaffirmed Germany’s long-standing commitment to Pakistan’s social protection efforts. He emphasized the importance of leveraging digitalization and resilience-building to create a more adaptive and inclusive system.
Speaking at the opening of the Second National Social Protection Conference, Senator Rubina Khalid, Chairperson of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to expanding and strengthening its social protection framework. She emphasized that BISP, established in 2008 as a tribute to the vision of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, has grown into the largest social safety net in Asia. “BISP is not just a program; it is a symbol of hope, empowerment, and resilience. It embodies the belief that social protection is not a privilege but a fundamental right,” she stated, highlighting the program’s role in uplifting the most vulnerable segments of society.
Over the past 15 years, BISP has transformed into a multi-dimensional initiative addressing poverty, education, health, and economic inclusion. Senator Khalid noted that the program’s Unconditional Cash Transfers (UCT) provide critical financial assistance to *9.8 million families*, particularly benefiting women-headed households. Additionally, BISP’s Benazir Taleemi Wazaif program has successfully enrolled over 10.77 million children— *50% of them girls* —linking cash support to school attendance and breaking the cycle of intergenerational poverty. “These initiatives are not just interventions; they are investments in human capital and a brighter future for Pakistan,” she remarked.
Chairman BISP urged stakeholders to work collectively to expand the reach of social protection programs, ensuring that no one is left behind. Expressing gratitude to international development partners—including the European Union, BMZ, KfW, the World Bank, and the Asian Development Bank.
Ms. Maria-Jose Poddey, Country Director for GIZ Pakistan, officially opened the conference, highlighting the need for actionable outcomes. “This conference is not just about dialogue—it is about action. Our collective efforts must translate into tangible improvements in Pakistan’s social protection landscape,” she stated.
Johanna Knoess, Project Head of Adaptive Social Protection at GIZ Pakistan, highlighted the significance of reducing duplication between federal and provincial programs. She emphasized that streamlined coordination would enhance efficiency and ensure resources are effectively allocated to those in need.
A key highlight of the opening session was a panel discussion featuring leading experts from the GIZ, World Bank, Asian Development Bank, and KfW Development Bank, who shared insights on advancing investments in social protection. Discussions focused on improving federal-provincial coordination, securing sustainable financing, and integrating climate adaptation into social protection policies.
The conference will explore key thematic areas, including policy coordination, financing mechanisms, data-driven decision-making, and digital transformation in social protection. The event aims to chart a pathway for Pakistan to develop an inclusive and climate-resilient social protection system that effectively addresses the needs of its most vulnerable populations.
With a strong emphasis on collaboration and innovation, the 2nd National Social Protection Conference is set to drive meaningful reforms, ensuring that Pakistan’s social protection policies evolve to meet future challenges and opportunities.
