Access to Social Protection by Immigrants, Emigrants and Resident Nationals in Senegal

Abstract

The Senegalese social protection system has been designed and implemented for the exclusive benefit of workers and their families to protect them against economic and social risks which may cause a (partial or total, temporary or permanent) loss of their earning capacity or the capacity to satisfy their basic needs. The system, which is essentially financed by the contributions of workers and employers, does not include the larger part of the population which evolves in the informal sector. The relevant regulations introduced a principle of equal opportunity for all benefits offered to Senegalese and migrant workers as well as their family members. Nationality is therefore irrelevant since wage-earning remains a fundamental criterion. Nevertheless, because of the territoriality of social security laws, the various benefits provided by the system are not applicable. The system only benefits Senegalese and foreign workers residing in the national territory. Not only is it disadvantageous to nationals living abroad, but it can also hinder the return of foreign workers to their countries of origin at the end of their professional career. The situation can be improved by bilateral or multilateral social security agreements binding the different countries.