The concept and practice of social protection in developing countries has advanced at an astonishing pace over the last decade or so. There is a growing consensus around the view that social protection constitutes an effective response to poverty and vulnerability in developing countries, and an essential component of economic and social development strategies. This paper argues that the rise of social protection constitutes a response to global factors, but with considerable regional diversity. The paper examines the factors determining the future course of social protection and identifies urgent research needs.

Keywords: social protection, vulnerability, human capital, productive assets, rights-based approach.