ESCAP has developed a microsimulation model, the SPOT Simulator, that enables users to examine the impact of different design features of non-contributory schemes on poverty, consumption, inequality and cost. Drawing on Household Income and Expenditure Surveys, the Simulator calculates the impact of providing non-contributory child, disability, maternity and old age benefits on development outcomes at the household and population level. Presented in a user-friendly manner, it aims to make data around social protection policy options more accessible for policy makers.

The SPOT Simulator is a tool to support countries in building stronger, more inclusive and comprehensive social protection systems in Asia and the Pacific. The half-day workshop will introduce the SPOT Simulator and enhance understanding of its functions and relevance to supporting policy making on social protection.