March 2026
At Haines Global Pensions, we follow global research that addresses real weaknesses in pension systems. A recent white paper from the Coller Pensions Institute and D3P Global is one we were pleased to read, and we would like to draw it to the attention of our own contacts.
The report focuses on a straightforward but pressing question: How can countries extend pensions coverage for the very large number of people working in the informal sector around the world?
In many countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America, pension systems are designed around formal employment. Yet a significant share of the workforce earns a living outside that structure, whether through self-employment, small trading, agriculture or gig economy work. In some countries this represents most workers. Without change, many people will reach later life with limited or no pension provision, placing pressure on families and public finances.
The paper reviews evidence from 11 countries and draws clear conclusions. It finds that tax incentives on their own have had limited impact in increasing pension participation among informal sector workers. By contrast, schemes that include matching contributions or direct top-ups have achieved stronger take-up. The report also shows that outcomes depend heavily on scheme design. Successful approaches combine financial incentives with simple enrolment processes, flexible contribution options suited to irregular incomes, accessible payment channels, and clear communication about the benefits of participation..
These themes are consistent with much of our own recent work. In Global Warning – Solving Pensions Gaps Around the World, published by The Actuary, we argued that ageing in many emerging markets is advancing quickly and that pension gaps are becoming broader economic risks, not simply social policy concerns. Incremental change is unlikely to be sufficient. Systems need to be built with wide coverage, financial balance and public confidence at their core.
Our recent work in Africa, reflected in An African Pensions Safari – Lessons and Opportunities, reached similar conclusions. Extending pension cover requires more than legislation. It requires arrangements that reflect how people actually work and earn. In many countries, informal work is not temporary or marginal; it is a central part of the labour market.
We have also explored related issues in our work on Central Europe, Indonesia and the gender pension gap. Across these settings, the pattern is familiar: populations are ageing, yet pension coverage remains uneven. Addressing the position of informal and non-standard workers is therefore central to long-term system stability.
We know some of the authors involved in this report and welcome the careful and evidence-based way in which it sets out the issue. It is a serious contribution to an important global discussion and aligns closely with the areas we continue to examine through our own research and advisory work.