Title: Parliamentarian Calls for Enhanced Livelihood Support for Retirees, Critiques Focus on Employment Restrictions
A Shift in Focus for Retiree Welfare
A member of the Iranian Parliament’s Social Commission has emphasized the need to improve the financial and social standing of retirees, suggesting that this should be the primary focus of officials. This statement comes in response to recent discussions by a deputy from the Social Security Organization regarding legal restrictions on pensioners working for online taxi services.
Addressing Economic Pressures
The parliamentarian highlighted the significant economic challenges faced by many families, particularly retired workers and those in the construction sector with irregular employment. He stated that the modest pension incomes often force family breadwinners to seek secondary or even tertiary jobs to cover living expenses. This situation, he argued, points to a need for stronger supportive policies that align income levels with inflation and the cost of living.
A Critique of Proposed Employment Bans
Labeling the recent debate on restricting retiree employment as “inappropriate,” the official provided a clear rationale. He asserted that if a retiree had no financial need, there would be no reason for them to seek other work, including lower-level jobs, during their retirement. Therefore, he urged authorities to concentrate on enhancing retirees’ living conditions and social dignity rather than proposing such limitations.
The Social Security Organization’s Stance
In related developments, Mohammad Ebrahim Javaheri, the Legal Deputy of the Social Security Organization, clarified the existing regulatory framework. He announced that without the approval of a specific driver insurance plan by Parliament, it would be impermissible for retirees to simultaneously receive a pension and be employed by online taxi companies. He explained that the pension is predicated on the individual not being employed, and in the absence of the new plan, no legal provision would authorize such activity.