THE government formed the National Committee on Social Protection on 23 April 2026 to prioritize the implementation of social protection programmes based on the needs of different age groups such as children, youth in vulnerable situations, and the elderly.
The National Committee will prioritize efforts to more effectively implement the action plans under Myanmar’s National Social Protection Strategic Plan, as well as the expanded social protection activities currently being carried out across the country. The Strategic Plan provides a framework for governments to reduce poverty, vulnerability, and economic shocks across a person’s life cycle. It typically targets vulnerable populations, including pregnant women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities, by providing cash transfers, healthcare access, and livelihood opportunities. The plan prioritizes eight key programmes, including Maternal and Child Cash Transfers, social pensions for the elderly, and disability allowances.
As part of efforts to provide social protection for mothers and children, the Department of Social Welfare has rolled out targeted cash assistance across all states and regions. Eligible mothers receive monthly financial support as well as health education. Moreover, it is necessary to ensure the establishment of a strong care and support system based on the needs of all groups and sectors, including women, persons with disabilities, the poor, and others in vulnerable situations.
The National Committee will effectively implement the already formulated Social Protection Strategic Plan. It is necessary to conduct an assessment of the social protection activities currently being implemented in the country and to establish methods through which various departments can jointly carry out their implementation. Furthermore, the National Committee will coordinate with the United Nations, international and local non-governmental organizations, and civil society organizations in order to seek and mobilize the necessary technical assistance and resources.
It is necessary to ensure access for all citizens to necessities such as healthcare, education, income security, and employment security; to promote the rights of workers and farmers through the establishment of various insurance systems, including a comprehensive universal health insurance system and an agricultural insurance system; and to carry out rehabilitation activities for those affected by any kind of disaster or adverse event.
In carrying out social protection initiatives, emphasis must be placed on effective monitoring and evaluation of the progress of project implementation. All stakeholders must make concerted efforts to provide social protection for all citizens and ensure good results from the implementation of strategic plans to promote safe and secure lives for the people.
