Social Protection in Developing Countries: The Togolese System Analysis

Purpose: Social protection has dual social and economic functions. It plays a critical role in promoting social equity and economic growth in both developed and developing countries. It is a valuable strategy for combating poverty and promoting sustainable development, especially in developing countries like Togo. It has been adopted as a key strategy to promote socioeconomic development and reduce poverty. Since then, no study has analyzed the system as a whole. We aim to analyze how the political and institutional framework shapes the scope of coverage, legal coverage, effective coverage, and the adequacy of the benefits, based on the four floors of social protection guarantees. Methodology: It is a mixed-methods study based on a quantitative descriptive analysis of administrative data, the technical group’s expertise, and beneficiary perceptions. The technical working group, anchored in the institutional architecture for social protection, comprises national experts from various sectors, including education, health, employment, social security, finance and economics, development planning, grassroots development, agriculture, social action, and social microinsurance. Findings: Social protection is a priority for economic and social development in Togo. It is one of the main pillars of the National Strategic Development. However, it is worth noting that, to date, there is no national social protection policy serving as a reference framework for stakeholders involved in this area. The scope of coverage is fragmented and unsustainable. Multiple Laws and Decrees do not ensure legal coverage for the population, especially in the informal sector. According to technical experts, the fragmented framework contributes to ineffective coverage and inadequate benefits, along with high economic informality and low fiscal capacity. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: This study identified multiple shortcomings and opportunities in the Togolese social protection system. It highlights the lack of a coherent policy framework and a plan for developing social protection in the country, as well as insufficient and inefficient coverage of the population and inadequate benefits. These results will inform evidence-based decision-making and policy development.