Title: Landmark Mandatory Insurance Scheme for Ride-Hailing Drivers Finalized, Boosting Social Welfare
In a significant move to bolster social and economic security for a key segment of the workforce, a new mandatory collective insurance scheme for ride-hailing drivers has been finalized. The initiative, which has been presented to the parliament, is hailed by labor representatives as a crucial step towards protecting workers’ rights and ensuring long-term social stability.
A Dual Benefit for Drivers
According to Hassan Sadeghi, Deputy Secretary-General of the Workers’ House and Head of the Veteran Workers’ Union, individuals who drive for online taxi services as a secondary job are entitled to receive social security benefits for both their places of employment under existing regulations. He described the new mandatory insurance plan as an effective measure to support one of the most vulnerable employed groups in the country.
Closing a Historic Coverage Gap
Sadeghi pointed to the successful precedent of mandatory insurance for construction workers and other guilds, noting that when insurance was optional, coverage was insufficient. He emphasized that a mandatory scheme for ride-hailing drivers rectifies this historical shortfall. “Many drivers and even couriers have remained without insurance coverage for years while seeking their rights from guild associations,” Sadeghi stated. “This collective and mandatory plan not only guarantees their rights but will also reduce social security costs in the long run.”
Addressing Criticisms and Ensuring Equity
Responding to criticisms from some platforms regarding potential increases in ride fares, Sadeghi clarified that the collected premiums are used exclusively to provide benefits for the drivers themselves. He asserted that the changes would not impact the social security organization’s budget deficit but would instead contribute to social justice and secure the drivers’ futures.
Sadeghi characterized the opposition from certain entities as being based on their specific interests, affirming that the drafted plan is thoroughly expert-driven. “With minimal adjustments to fare costs,” he said, “it can make insurance accessible for the vast majority of drivers.”
A Broader Social Impact
The official also highlighted the wider societal benefits of the scheme, explaining that a lack of insurance increases economic pressure on drivers and their families in old age. This can sometimes force children into the workforce prematurely. “Implementing this mandatory collective insurance plan can prevent such challenges,” Sadeghi concluded, “by reducing economic pressure and injecting greater social security into the community.”