Content area
Full text
Abstract
This paper provides insight into the policy processes surrounding the design of Nepal's first National Social Protection Framework (NSPF) that was initiated in 2009 by the UCPN-Maoists. The paper examines how the policy evolved and a myriad of reasons for why the framework remains in a draft form six years after it was instigated. Nepal's social inequality is not just a product of a lack of protection, but it is also the result of the way the state functions. Social protection programs will reproduce inequality until the state becomes more inclusive, transparent and accountable. This paper contributes specific information to a limited, but growing body of literature that examines social protection policymaking in fragile and transitioning states.
Keywords: Social Protection Frameworks; Social Protection Policymaking; Fragile States; Nepal.
Introduction
Little is known about social protection policy making in Nepal (Koehler & Khatiwada, 2014). Social protection, is better known as 'welfare' or 'social security' in high-income countries.2 It encompasses social assistance, social security, employment-assistance, and social safety nets. Redistribution or welfare involves using taxes and other state resources to help those who are poor or vulnerable to poverty and hardship. In this paper, social protection is defined or used as an umbrella term for policies and assistance associated with the state that involve in-kind or cash transfers, and insurance- or employment-related assistance that protects citizens against vulnerability, risk and poverty deemed unacceptable by society.
The idea of a 'social protection system' or a 'overarching framework' that goes beyond programs is globally trending. The Social Protection Floors (SPF) initiative drives this global trend. The SPF is a concept of protection that is nationally developed based on international norms of social protection. According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO) (2012), 'national floors of social protection aim to extend social security vertically (providing more comprehensive services and benefits) and horizontally (extending coverage to a greater number) to cover all groups.' SPFs should comprise at least the following: access to essential healthcare, including maternity care; basic income security for children; basic income security for persons in active age who are unable to earn sufficient income; and basic income security for older persons (ILO, 2012). A social protection framework explores the policy approaches that underpin programs in order to generate...