Summary

This research paper aims to examine barriers to the social security of migrant workers in the Arab region, identify current practices and chart possible avenue for progressive reform. It reflects on the importance of extending social protection to migrant workers from the vantage point of international labour and social security standards. The paper also presents a typology of drivers of exclusion that prevents social security access across the Arab region. Based on available best practices from the region, the paper proposes key elements for a progressive reform agenda to advance the universal right to social protection to migrant workers in the region.