Social Protection is a Fundamental Right, Not a Privilege – Senator Rubina Khalid

Karachi (24 February 2025): Addressing the Second National Social Protection Conference, Senator Rubina Khalid, Chairperson of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening social protection systems, ensuring that no vulnerable community is left behind.

Reflecting on the journey since the first National Social Protection Conference in 2023, she emphasised the importance of collective action and sustained efforts in shaping an inclusive, resilient, and adaptive social protection framework for Pakistan.

"Social protection is a fundamental right, not a privilege," Senator Rubina Khalid stated, highlighting the need to ensure that every Pakistani, especially the most vulnerable, has access to essential support systems.

“Together, we must build stronger partnerships and align our efforts to overcome challenges and strengthen social protection systems for Pakistan,” she urged.

Acknowledging the role of international partners, she expressed gratitude to the European Union, German Development Cooperation, the World Bank, and the Asian Development Bank (ADB)  for their unwavering support in advancing an adaptive and resilient social protection system.

“The government remains fully committed to strengthening and expanding social protection to uplift our most vulnerable communities. Together, we will continue to build a Pakistan where every citizen has the opportunity to live with dignity and security,” she concluded.