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Work-related social protection
Protecting workers against risks to their incomes and livelihoods
Work-related social protection schemes cover specific risks and contingencies which are faced by workers, including illness, injuries, maternity and unemployment. However, many workers, particularly those in the informal sector, are not covered by such schemes. Only 35 per cent of the global labour force is protected in the event of employment-related injuries, and only one-third has income security in case of illness. Women of working age are less likely than men to be covered by comprehensive social security systems.
Work-related social protection schemes are an essential element of Universal Social Protection. They help to ensure the income and livelihoods of workers and their dependents, and also contribute to increases in productivity. For this reason, they are an important investment in inclusive economic growth.
Germany supports the introduction of occupational health and safety schemes which aim to prevent workplace injuries; the development of work-related social protection schemes, such as employment injury insurance; and the extension of social protection coverage to workers in the informal sector. The articles, events and studies on this page provide insights into how Germany supports social protection in the world of work.