Introduction

​​​​​​​“Everyone, as a member of society, has the right to social security and is entitled to realization, through national effort and international co-operation and in accordance with the organization and resources of each State, of the economic, social and cultural rights indispensable for his dignity and the free development of his personality.” (Universal Declaration of Human Rights Article 22)

Social security, a proclaimed Human Right, is a key mechanism to ensure social and economic equality. Social inequalities are a considerable strain on any society and economy. Therefore, different forms of social security systems have been applied by nations, religious institutions, or private companies for centuries in order to mitigate the many negative effects of poverty. Internationally, it is now recognized by most countries that some form of social security mechanisms are crucial to a country’s healthy and effective social and economic development.

On this background, the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) is promoting the concept of Social Market Economy also internationally as a consideration and inspiration for policy makers and representatives of the private sector, who influence the economic and social development of different countries around the world. Sharing experiences in economic policy drafting and balancing state-led social security schemes with the preservations of individual and market freedoms is therefore at the core of KAS’ international efforts to strengthen the global link between economic growth and social justice.

This publication addresses the situation in Uganda and provides a comprehensive presentation of the strength and weaknesses of the Ugandan social security systems. It gives an insight into the development and situation of both formal and informal security systems in Uganda and analyses the different available options as well as the remaining gaps.

We hope, this publication will make a significant contribution to the complex and thriving discourse on the development of a Ugandan social security system, and wish for the deep and enriching impact the authors have envisioned.

You can download the whole report as pdf.