Uzbekistan has secured a $100mn concessional loan from the World Bank for the implementation of the Innovative Social Protection System for Inclusion of Vulnerable People (INSON) Project. The initiative aims to enhance the accessibility and quality of social services for vulnerable groups within the country.
The project, bolstered by an additional $2mn grant from the Early Learning Partnership, a multi-donor trust fund associated with the World Bank, is poised to address critical gaps in social service delivery, particularly targeting vulnerable children's development and well-being. These funds will facilitate rigorous evaluation of community-level social services and strive to enhance their efficacy and impact on vulnerable children across Uzbekistan.
Marco Mantovanelli, the World Bank Country Manager for Uzbekistan, commended the government's proactive stance in fortifying the national social protection framework to extend comprehensive support to vulnerable groups.
"This project will help build the legal and institutional foundations of the care economy, expanding access to quality on-demand social services currently underserved to thousands of vulnerable individuals nationwide," Mantovanelli remarked.
Under the stewardship of the National Social Protection Agency (NASP), in collaboration with governmental bodies, non-governmental organizations, and international development partners, the project envisages a multifaceted approach towards ameliorating social service accessibility and efficacy.
Key outcomes targeted by the project include:
Establishment and operation of over 50 community-based territorial social service centers (TSSCs) to cater to the needs of the most vulnerable populations. Improving access to quality social care and rehabilitation services for over 50,000 vulnerable individuals, including older persons, persons with disabilities, and vulnerable children.
Augmenting NASP's capacity in developing a robust legal and regulatory framework to enhance standards for home-based, community-based, and residential social services.
Facilitating the emergence of a regulated and accredited market for private providers, thus reducing reliance on institutional care and stimulating private sector engagement in social service provision.
Implementing a social case management system to offer personalized support to vulnerable individuals. Equipping 1,200 persons with disabilities, with a focus on youth aged 15-24, with professional skills and employment opportunities.
Providing comprehensive legal, health, psychological, and other support services to women through 29 Women Adaptation and Rehabilitation Centers nationwide, alongside empowerment initiatives encompassing digital literacy and financial management.
Pioneering shock-responsive social protection measures, including climate adaptation programs, aimed at enhancing resilience among rural populations and mitigating climate-related risks for 100,000 impoverished individuals.
By proactively addressing these critical facets, Uzbekistan aims to broaden social and economic prospects for project beneficiaries, fostering their seamless integration into society and overall well-being.
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