Denial of right to social security

Nature

Denial of right to social security refers to the exclusion or obstruction of individuals or groups from accessing social protection systems, such as pensions, unemployment benefits, healthcare, and family support. This problem undermines basic human rights, increases vulnerability to poverty, and perpetuates social and economic inequalities. Causes include discriminatory policies, administrative barriers, lack of legal frameworks, and insufficient funding. Denial of social security disproportionately affects marginalized populations, including women, children, the elderly, and people with disabilities, impeding their well-being and social inclusion. Addressing this issue is essential for promoting social justice and sustainable development.

Background

The denial of the right to social security emerged as a global concern in the aftermath of the Great Depression, when widespread destitution highlighted the necessity of state-supported welfare systems. The 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights formally recognized social security as a fundamental right, yet persistent disparities and exclusion in both developed and developing nations have since underscored its ongoing relevance. International monitoring intensified following the ILO’s 1952 Social Security (Minimum Standards) Convention.

Incidence

Globally, over 4 billion people—more than half the world’s population—lack access to any form of social security, according to the International Labour Organization. This denial disproportionately affects informal workers, migrants, and those in low-income countries, exacerbating poverty, inequality, and vulnerability to economic shocks. The gap is particularly acute in regions such as sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, where coverage rates remain below 20%, leaving millions without protection against illness, unemployment, or old age.
In 2022, protests erupted in Sri Lanka as the government’s economic crisis led to severe cuts in social security benefits, leaving many elderly and disabled citizens without essential support.

Claim

The denial of the right to social security is a grave injustice that perpetuates poverty, inequality, and human suffering. It strips individuals of dignity, security, and hope, leaving them vulnerable to life’s hardships. In a just society, access to social security is not a privilege but a fundamental right. Ignoring this need is not only morally indefensible but also undermines the very foundation of social cohesion and progress. This problem demands urgent action.

Counter-claim

The so-called “denial of right to social security” is vastly overstated and hardly a pressing issue. In reality, most people have access to some form of support, and those who don’t often have other means to get by. Focusing on this supposed problem distracts from more urgent concerns. Social security is not a universal necessity, and its absence does not constitute a significant societal crisis. The issue is simply not important.