Global survey led by Royal Holloway academic uncovers strategies that help social security institutions worldwide stay resilient and agile in a rapidly changing world.
Dr Ran Bhamra presenting findings from the Royal Holloway-ISSA global resilience study at the World Social Security Forum 2025.
Social security institutions – government departments, agencies and administrative bodies responsible for delivering social protection such as income security, health care, and support for sickness, disability and old age – are facing rapidly intensifying pressures, from climate‑related disasters and demographic shifts to technological change and economic shocks.
New research led by Dr Ran Bhamra at Royal Holloway, University of London, in partnership with the International Social Security Association (ISSA), highlights how these essential public institutions are adapting to safeguard the people who depend on them.
Drawing on a global survey conducted throughout 2024 supported by extensive engagement with senior leaders at ISSA’s international events and webinars, the research shows a significant shift in preparedness. Around 75% of organisations report an anticipatory rather than reactive mindset, supported by more open communication, improved risk‑mitigation practices and regular crisis simulations.
Institutions also highlight persistent challenges, including difficulties adapting quickly, navigating rigid legal frameworks and operating with limited resources. Yet those progressing fastest share common key traits: more decentralised decision‑making, flexible leadership approaches and a commitment to creativity and innovation across core services.
Dr Bhamra, currently Associate Dean (Recruitment and Global), Faculty of Business & Law and Associate Professor in Operations & Supply Chain Management at Royal Holloway, said: “Social security institutions are expected to be there for people during their most vulnerable moments. Our research shows that stability doesn’t come from rigidity – it comes from having strong foundations and the agility to move when the world shifts around you.”
Marcelo Abi-Ramia Caetano, Secretary General of the ISSA said: “Our partnership with Royal Holloway has become an important source of insight for social security institutions worldwide, helping our members explore practical ways to strengthen resilience and adapt to rapidly changing conditions.
“As we move into our 2026-2028 programme, this collaboration continues to provide valuable knowledge that supports institutions in becoming more agile, innovative and better equipped to serve their populations.”
Margarita Féliz Féliz, Head of the Department of Integral Risk Management, Social Security Treasury, Dominican Republic, a member of ISSA, said: “The joint work of the ISSA and Royal Holloway University on institutional resilience provides a modern and practical framework that enables social security institutions to anticipate risks, respond with agility, and ensure service continuity under complex and evolving conditions.”
These insights underpin Dr Bhamra’s framework for “dynamic resilience” – helping institutions stay reliable while remaining agile during disruption. The framework focuses on strategic agility, creative problem‑solving and adaptive leadership, strengthening good governance while enabling practical innovation when crises arise.
The findings also support ISSA’s 2026-2028 programme, which places resilience, agility and innovation at its core. The partnership between ISSA and Royal Holloway will continue to generate insights that help institutions prepare for future shocks and reinforce social protection systems worldwide.
This research reflects Royal Holloway’s commitment to advancing knowledge with social purpose – supporting public institutions to protect people, improve wellbeing and build resilience in a time of rapid global change.
