The Ministry of Equity, Social Justice and Empowerment has launched a Civil Society Platform for Social Protection, marking a significant milestone in the implementation of Saint Lucia's National Social Protection Policy (NSPP 2022-2030).

The inaugural meeting, held at the National Skills Development Center, brought together representatives from various non-governmental organizations, government officials, and stakeholders in the social protection sector. Key discussion points included the structure and function of the Social Protection System, the Implementation of the NSPP Action Plan, Registration processes for Civil Society Organizations and the role of civil society in supporting vulnerable populations.

Mr. Kendal Elva, Deputy Director of Social Transformation, emphasized the critical importance of this initiative, “The Ministry of Equity views civil society organizations as being very important in the quest to achieve the mandate of protecting all Saint Lucians from shocks, such as those experienced during the COVID pandemic, or when someone becomes unemployed or falls into poverty. The Ministry of Equity recognizes that various civil society organizations are contributing to this very important process.”

The Civil Society Platform aims to provide a formal mechanism for civil society organizations and beneficiaries to participate in shaping social protection policies and programs in Saint Lucia. This collaborative approach is expected to enhance the effectiveness and reach of social protection initiatives across the island.

Participating organizations were invited to join the Social Protection Network (SPN) and support key initiatives such as the Koudmen Sent Lisi (KSL) program, spearheaded by the St Lucia Social Development Fund (SSDF).

Executive Director of the Saint Lucia Social Development Fund (SSDF), John Victorin, emphasizes that commitment from all stakeholders is essential to ensure the platform's sustainability. “It is my belief that if we are going to make an impact, we need to work together. This forum is absolutely integral to our efforts to provide social protection. While social protection broadly embraces the entire society, it targets the most vulnerable.”

The Ministry is moving apace to engage and collaborate within the SPN to mainstream social protection and will be rolling out an information campaign to highlight the latest developments in the social protection sector. This platform launch represents a crucial step in Saint Lucia's ongoing efforts to strengthen its social protection framework and better serve the needs of its most vulnerable citizens.