This paper analyzes a regional approach to social protection in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), grounded in the universal principle that all individuals facing similar risks should receive equitable coverage, irrespective of labor status. Building on the framework by Levy and Cruces (2021), as developed in UNDP (2021), it highlights the political and fiscal challenges of implementing a universal model that encompasses social insurance, noncontributory social programs, and tax reforms. A central theme is the need for flexibility and adaptability in regional social protection policies to accommodate the diverse social, economic, and political contexts of LAC countries. The paper also addresses political economy and fiscal sustainability challenges, proposing micro and meso interventions that align with long-term goals of universal health, pensions, and income support systems.

Emphasis is placed on the role of incremental reforms in fostering broad-based social security coverage, reducing informality, and ultimately contributing to sustainable development goals.

This paper contributes to the ongoing dialogue on building sustainable social protection systems in LAC, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals and UNDP’s commitment to reducing social vulnerabilities across the region.