The Role of Social Protection During COVID-19 in Bangladesh

The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in unprecedented strain on global health systems, economies, and social systems. In Bangladesh, one of the world’s most densely populated countries with high levels of economic vulnerability, the pandemic deepened inequalities, cost millions of jobs, reduced many incomes and hampered access to education and health care, pushing millions into poverty. In response, social protection mechanisms emerged as an important tool for both mitigating the socio-economic impacts of COVID-19 and ensuring the continuation of essential services and human security. This paper investigates the role of government-led and non-governmental social protection programs in Bangladesh during the pandemic. It discusses the effectiveness of cash transfers, food assistance and employment initiatives, and also identifies some of the main challenges like inefficiencies in targeting, implementation delays, and shortfalls in funding. The paper concludes with recommendations for policies that would strengthen the social protection system in Bangladesh, enhancing resilience and preparedness for future crises.