The government plans to redefine social protection through the new National Social Protection framework, says Vice President Faisal Naseem.

He said this during the launching of the National Consultation on Readiness to Implement Action Plan to Strengthen Regional Cooperation on Social Protection in the Maldives.

Taking the podium at the event held at Hotel Jen on Wednesday morning, VP Naseem stressed on the importance of strengthening the social protection system of the Maldives.

As such, he revealed that the government plans to redefine social protection via the new National Social Protection Framework, in the near future.

He added that it will be divided into social insurance schemes and social assistance programmes.

Speaking further , the vice president noted that the incumbent administration of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih supervised major progress in strengthening the Social Protection System, with the launch of the new registry portal, by the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) for people with disabilities.

Highlighting that the new registry followed the classification of disabilities according to the World Health Organization (WHO)'s standards, VP Naseem stated that Maldives had implemented universal cash transfers as well as allowances for therapeutic items and assistive technology for people with disabilities.

He went on to highlight that the incumbent administration has achieved significant progress in its ongoing efforts to ensure access to social protection for all.

As such, the vice president shed light on the implementation of allowances for single mothers, the provision of supporting utilities for vulnerable individuals and those living below the poverty line, and pension plans have all positively affected the lives of thousands around the nation.

In his speech, the vice president also stressed on the importance of working collectively to better the lives of the people.

He added that the Maldives has always been a keen supporter of the Action Plan to Strengthen Regional Cooperation on Social Protection.

The Regional Action Plan provides a shared vision, strategy, and platform for more inclusive and extensive social protection systems.