The Fifth Social Policy Conference, organized by the Social Policy Resource Centre (SPRC), focused on social policy considerations for Pakistan’s 11th National Finance Commission (NFC) Award. The conference brought together researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to examine how fiscal federalism and NFC transfers influence social development, public service delivery, and social protection outcomes across provinces. Presentations highlighted that while increases in fiscal transfers contribute to provincial spending, their impact on poverty reduction and social development is uneven, depending on governance, institutional capacity, and efficient resource allocation. The discussions emphasized the importance of linking fiscal transfers with concrete outcomes in health, education, and social protection, and of strengthening evidence-based policymaking. The conference underscored SPRC’s role in providing research and policy support to inform future NFC deliberations, promoting inclusive social development, stronger public services, and improved social protection outcomes across Pakistan.

Date: Wednesday, 31^st December 2026, Time: 2:00pm, Platform: Zoom Meeting
Panel
Chair/Moderator: Dr. Safdar Sohail
Discussants:
Dr. Aliya Hashmi Khan, C.E.O. Social Policy Resource Centre, former Dean Faculty of Social Sciences, Quaid-i-Azam University
Mr. Mohsin Chandna, DG Debt, Finance Ministry of Pakistan, Government of Pakistan
Ms. Shirin Sadozai, Senior Associate at Development, Pathways Ltd, UK.
Mr. Mahmood Khalid, Director, Economic Analysis, Tax Policy Office, Ministry of Finance, Govt of Pakistan