UNICEF supports the analysis of Montenegro’s social protection system to reduce poverty
UNICEF has supported a two-year analysis of the social protection system in Montenegro based on the internationally known “CODI” methodology.
UNICEF’s role is to protect and promote the rights of the child and thus directly contribute to the inclusive, sustainable development of Montenegro. Investing in human capital and involving everyone in the development of the country is the basis of the healthy economy. An effective and efficient social protection system is a necessary condition for proper development.
In order for every child to realize his or her potential and rights, Montenegro must reduce child poverty and ensure that all children have access to quality education, health care and protection from all forms of violence.
A key step in achieving this goal is to reform the social protection system, in order to provide better support to the most vulnerable families across the country. In addition to financial assistance, support services should be provided through which families will be empowered.
The key weaknesses and strengths of the current social protection system have been identified and a list of potential reforms has been proposed to improve the system. UNICEF will support the Ministry of Finance and Social Welfare to select priority reforms for children and families, conduct their cost-benefit analysis, and consult directly with families and local communities. Also, the need to increase the number of social workers and to focus their work on direct communication with people in the field was recognized. The need to improve cooperation between the health, education, social and child protection sectors at all levels and to better regulate social responsibility responsibilities between the local and national levels is also emphasized. Increasing the financial value of social benefits to vulnerable families, as well as improving the monitoring and evaluation system, which should include the opinions of beneficiaries on their needs. Much more comprehensive support is also recommended for certain vulnerable groups such as Roma, Egyptians and children with disabilities in order to be able to overcome the challenges they face on a daily basis.