Joining Forces for Resilient Armenia

The UN World Food Programme (WFP), in partnership with the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs (MLSA), implements the "Integrated Response to Increased Food Prices in Armenia" project, funded by USAID. Together, we are working towards a brighter future for the people of Armenia.

As part of this initiative, WFP is proud to launch the design and operationalization of national shock-responsive social protection (SRSP) protocols. These protocols will become sustainable mechanisms for the national social protection system to respond to different shocks that occur in Armenia. To ensure sustainable ways forward, in March 2023, an inter-ministerial Taskforce for shock-responsive social protection was formed and chaired by the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs. Representatives of the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Infrastructure, Ministry of Internal Affairs, and National Migration Services participate in the Taskforce. Their expertise and commitment are instrumental in creating resourced and well-framed protocols for the social protection system that can effectively address shocks and crises where WFP stands as a key partner to facilitate the journey.

Recently, the Taskforce in partnership with WFP organized a simulation exercise in Congress Hotel hosting international partners, Taskforce members, and NGOs. In the simulation, all stakeholders engaged in the discussion of two scenarios” earthquake and conflict, to map out response actions and coordination. Several key takeaways from the exercise have been the experience of working together on response, the challenge of distributing roles clearly, and the institutional gaps that stakeholders identify together.

We commit to building platforms for joint and coordinated response to shocks.