This study reviewed risk communication and community engagement (RCCE) strategies and access to social protection for vulnerable and marginalised groups during COVID-19. The analysis was based on policy reviews, research, and program reports.
Findings: while RCCE initiatives reached vulnerable groups, implementation was mostly one-way, non-participatory, and often failed to address specific needs of groups such as people with disabilities, older adults, and the urban poor. Access to social protection was limited due to administrative barriers and lacked an inclusive policy response.
Recommendations: foster pentahelix collaboration (government, civil society, private sector, academia, media), strengthen evidence-based inclusive policies, and build the capacity of community organisations to reach underserved populations.
