Algiers: On Wednesday, the Sultanate of Oman took part in the Fourth Arab Forum for Equality, themed "Dialogue and Solutions" 2025, which is hosted by the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) in the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria.
Dr. Laila Ahmed Al Najjar, Minister of Social Development, represented Oman at the event.
This year's forum focused on regional priorities to address inequality and social protection in light of the Arab region's current challenges. It looked at how social protection programs might reduce inequities caused by economic, environmental, humanitarian, and political hurdles, as well as how they could support inclusive and sustainable development.
During a panel discussion on "Financing Comprehensive Social Protection," Dr. Al Najjar presented Oman's major national experiences and practices in this area, such as the establishment of a social protection system to improve financial and operational efficiency, diversify funding sources, and provide direct cash benefits to the elderly, children, orphans, widows, disabled persons, and low-income families.
She also explored methods to improve cooperation between government and commercial sectors, as well as civil society organizations, in order to broaden social protection coverage.
She emphasized that social protection investment is critical to achieving sustainable development and social well-being, as well as its alignment with the goals of "Oman Vision 2040. "
The forum, which included ministers, officials, private sector representatives, civil society organizations, and experts, allowed for the sharing of national and international experiences on how to reduce inequality in the Arab world.
It highlighted the greatest regional and global social protection system best practices, including how they mitigate inequality, support vulnerable populations, and engage stakeholders in solution-driven dialogues to promote social cohesion.
Sessions addressed themes like "Extending Social Protection to the Informal Sector," "Social Protection Under War, Israeli Occupation, and Conflict," "Social Protection as a Pathway to Reducing Inequality," and "Innovative Solutions to Strengthen Social Protection. " The discussions concluded with a focus on "Global Partnerships for More Effective Social Protection. "
