What's Happening?
The International Labour Organization (ILO), in collaboration with Nepal's Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security, and the Social Security Fund (SSF), has launched a Social Security National Campaign. This initiative targets informal sector
and self-employed workers, aiming to include them in social security schemes. The campaign was inaugurated with the presence of local government representatives and stakeholders. Since the inception of the SSF in 2075 BS, 2.65 million people have enrolled, but implementation has been limited to only eight local levels despite agreements with over 114 local levels. ILO Country Director Numan Ozcan emphasized the importance of including workers in social security schemes to secure their future and that of their dependents.
Why It's Important?
This campaign is significant as it addresses the social security needs of informal and self-employed workers, a group often excluded from traditional social safety nets. By integrating these workers into social security schemes, the initiative aims to provide them with financial stability and protection against economic uncertainties. This move could potentially reduce poverty and improve the quality of life for millions of workers and their families. The campaign also highlights the challenges of policy implementation at the local level, which is crucial for the success of such social initiatives.
