Brief Policy 2 Addressing Economic Inequality through Social Security A Transformative Approach to Supporting Vulnerable Populations Aliya Hashmi Khan, Gayatri Sharma, Adhiraj Regmi, Munkhtsatsral Davaadorj, Rina Julvianty, Dina Nuriyati, and Ume Laila Azhar Executive Summary Social security is the set of public policies and programs designed to reduce and prevent poverty and vulnerability throughout the life cycle. It includes child and family benefits, maternity protection, unemployment support, employment injury, sickness, and health protection, as well as old-age, disability, and survivors’ pensions. The Covid-19 pandemic exposed inequalities and significant gaps in social protection coverage, comprehensiveness and adequacy across all countries. The pandemic, coupled with various other social and economic crises, exposed vulnerabilities of billions of people who were not adequately protected from the socio-economic shock waves that were transmitted across the globe. These recommendations draw from recent post­pandemic policies of governments in Asia seeking to provide a more level playing field. The policy recommendations identified in this policy brief aim to empower the most vulnerable, specifically migrant and low-income workers in Asia’s informal sector. The goal is to strengthen social security measures for the most vulnerable in Asia by sensitizing policymakers to adopt transformative policies that address their needs. Drawing from existing practices in various Asian countries, this study highlights policies that create opportunities for work without exploitation. As women are predominantly employed in the informal sector, in low paying jobs, as migrant workers, and in home-based work, these recommendations aim to be gender transformative. Introduction Besides playing a crucial role in building and sustaining public trust, social security contributes to economic growth by raising labour productivity and enhancing social stability (International Labour Organisation[ILO], 2001). The presence of healthcare systems, pension schemes, cash benefits, medical and accident insurances, unemployment subsidies, and child benefits create a feeling of security among the workforce, which can significantly stimulate innovations in economy and world of work. Policymakers need to consider the economic, social, and political background of a country when determining social benefits. As there is no“one-size-fits-all” approach to social security benefits, the interplay of interests among different groups influences the social benefits any country offers. Transformative approach addresses the root causes of the problem. A gender transformative approach, in particular, challenges power relations, gender norms and stereotypes that perpetuate inequality. 1