A Slippery Slope: The Opportunities and Risks of Digital Approaches and Technology in Social Protection Systems

Phillippe Leite, Andres Chamba, Youssef Zaarour and Dominique Leska-See

No 197627, Social Protection Discussion Papers and Notes from The World Bank

Abstract: Advances in technology have the potential to enhance social protection services delivery but come with risks, such as data privacy concerns, exclusion, and biases. To use digital technologies effectively, strong frameworks, infrastructure, and capacity are essential. Without these, technology may inadvertently harm rather than benefit the intended populations. Technology can improve access, outreach, training, monitoring, and secure payments, among others, but risks must be managed by clearly defining roles and responsibilities among stakeholders. Hence, policymakers must understand challenges and define processes before selecting technology, viewing it as a tool to complement, not replace, non-digital services. Therefore, technology should support human resources in social protection programs, and aligning innovation with effective safeguards can maximize its potential for equitable and responsible outcomes.

Date: 2025-01-31
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