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COOPERATION FOR SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT Chiles commitment in the framework of the Inter- American Social Protection Network

Texto 2 Chiles Social Policy Nowadays, Chile has consolidated a Social Protection program that covers Chileans lifespans, starting with conception (protection for childhood, work, vulnerable groups, and old age). Since 2002, the Puente program, with its psychosocial approach, has aided 400,000 families in accessing the States social protection networks and improved their quality of life. Chiles Social Protection system is based on working with local social services networks and an intersectorial management model spanning all public institutions on a local, regional, and national level. Its rights-based approach has allowed individuals and families to be recognized as the protagonists of their own lives, and as such, they are empowered to access and demand social services and benefits to which they are entitled.

The Importance of Exchange and Social Technical Transfer Latin American and other governments from the global South recognize the importance of the social responsibility to share successful experiences in the areas of overcoming poverty and social vulnerability. South-South and Triangular Cooperation have proven to be efficient mechanisms that can aid in achieving the Millennium Development Goals in the area of social development. Within the framework of the Inter-American Social Protection Network, there is an important value placed on cooperation with countries in the Americas to acquire shared learning. The exchange and transfer of successful models and strategies between the two hemispheres is continually gaining importance so as to achieve more equal opportunities for all.

Recognition The Puente in the Caribbean program is an example of a successful South-South Cooperation initiative within the network of the IASPN. The collaboration and leadership of OAS and FOSIS Chile experts are highly valued by all of the actors. The Transfer Model, developed by FOSIS, has proven to be a solid tool to install abilities in the institutions of the counterpart states. The beneficiaries of the first phase of the program (Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, and St. Lucia) are committed to supporting the ongoing implementation of the second phase of the program The participants of the second phase (Barbados, Suriname, St. Kitts & Nevis, and St. Vincent & The Grenadines) have shown high levels of interest and commitment to the program.

Our Future Commitments Chile reiterates its commitment to the English - speaking Caribbean countries to continue exchanging experiences and learning. The successful installation of social programs following the Chilean model in three Caribbean countries is an important sign for further cooperation with other states in the framework of the IASPN. Chile is committed to sharing the new emphases of the government in the areas of social policy with the member countries of the Inter- American Social Protection Network. Chile, through the Ministry of Planning, expresses the governments interest in continuing to develop the areas of social technical transfer and exchange of experiences between the Americas in order to contribute to the attainment of the Millennium Development Goals.