Abstract
Distinguishes between Basic Social Security (BSS), intended for those who do not dispose of minimal resources and are prone to human deprivation and vulnerability, and Contingent Social Security (CSS), protecting people in hazardous situations arising from ill-health, accidents, unemployment, old age, etc. Drawing on European experiences over history, reflects on social security issues in transition and developing countries, including poverty reduction. Outline lessons learned from ILO and other studies on the extension of social security.