Social protection in Ethiopia refers to a set of policies, programmes, and interventions designed to reduce poverty, protect vulnerable populations from risks, and promote inclusive social and economic development. As one of Africa's most populous countries, Ethiopia has faced numerous challenges such as poverty, drought, food insecurity, unemployment, conflict, displacement, and climate change. These challenges have made social protection an essential component of national development and social work practice. Social workers play an important role in identifying vulnerable groups, linking them with available services, advocating for their rights, and promoting community resilience. The Ethiopian government has gradually expanded its social protection system through national policies and development strategies. The National Social Protection Policy, introduced in 2014, aims to ensure that vulnerable individuals and households are protected against economic and social shocks while promoting sustainable livelihoods. The policy focuses on improving access to essential services, reducing poverty, enhancing human capital, and promoting social inclusion. It also encourages collaboration among government institutions, civil society organizations, international development partners, and local communities. One of the most significant social protection programmes in Ethiopia is the Productive Safety Net Programme (PSNP). Introduced in 2005, it supports food-insecure households by providing cash or food transfers in exchange for participation in public works such as soil conservation, irrigation development, road construction, and environmental rehabilitation. Households that are unable to work, including elderly persons, people with disabilities, pregnant women, and chronically ill individuals, receive direct support without work requirements. The programme has helped millions of Ethiopians improve food security, protect