The literature on risk, vulnerability and social protection is very well developed, but new approaches build their theoretical framework based on research results. The aim of this section is to empower researchers to share scientific results, ideas and concepts concerning lifecycle risks, vulnerable groups and policy approaches in the context of social protection for sustainable development explanatory paradigm. The topic is highly multidisciplinary, bringing together researchers and practitioners in social assistance, sociology, economy, anthropology and related fields.

We welcome submission of research papers related, but not restricted, to the following thematic areas:

• Lifecycle risks and social protection systems;
• Social protection in crisis contexts;
• Social protection of vulnerable groups and policy approaches;
• Social protection for sustainable development;
• Social protection: a life cycle continuum investment;
• Community engagement and empowerment of vulnerable groups.

Chair Aniela MATEI

Aniela Matei, sociologist by profession, senior researcher, leads the Social Policies department of the National Scientific Research Institute for Labour and Social Protection – INCSMPS coordinating three research teams within this department (Family and Child in Difficulty Policies, Policies for Elderly, Poverty and Social Indicators). Aniela Matei is a member of The Romanian Consultative College for Research-Development and Innovation (CCCDI, Romania), Commission 3. Social Sciences, advisory body of the Romanian Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digitalization. She has over 20 years of experience in implementing national and international research projects in the field of social policies within INCSMPS, being specialized in: social research/analysis methods and techniques (quantitative and qualitative), impact assessment/evaluation methodologies in the field of family policies, reconciling work and family life, early childhood education and care (ECEC) policies, social assistance for vulnerable groups, and labour market policies. She is the author/co-author of more than 50 scientific articles or book chapters.