Iranian President Announces Continuation of Pension Harmonization Plan
In a significant move addressing the welfare of retirees, President Masoud Pezeshkian has confirmed that the government will continue to implement the pension harmonization plan in the coming year. This initiative is a key part of the administration’s commitment to improving the livelihoods of the nation’s retirees.
A Commitment to Retirees’ Welfare
Responding to inquiries about government programs for retirees, President Pezeshkian emphasized that the harmonization plan’s initiation and continuation will lead to a significant increase in pensions. He underscored the government’s commitment to honoring the valuable status of retirees, stating that serious research is underway to realize this priority. The President added that one of the government’s main missions is to alleviate the living difficulties faced by this segment of society.
Details of the Seventh Development Plan
The framework for these adjustments is clearly outlined in the nation’s Seventh Development Plan, ensuring a structured and legally-bound approach. The plan stipulates specific, incremental increases:
- In the first year of implementation, pensions are set to increase by 40% relative to their employed counterparts.
- In the following year (1405), a further 40% increase is scheduled.
- In the year after (1406), an additional 30% raise will be applied, culminating in a total 90% adjustment.
The regulations explicitly state that no arbitrary governmental discretion should be applied in executing these measures, and all actions must be based on approved laws.
Implementation Timeline and Payments
According to the executive bylaw of the harmonization plan, pension funds are mandated to adjust the pensions of their beneficiaries in line with approved credits and regulations. Key implementation steps include:
- The payment of a 40% differential will begin and continue through the end of the next fiscal year.
- Any arrears accrued during the current year will be settled in the next year, subject to budget allocation.
- The plan’s second phase is scheduled to commence in the year 1405, as per the Seventh Development Plan.
A Call for Justice and Sustainable Policies
The government and parliament have been called upon to adopt a justice-oriented approach based on economic realities when making decisions about pension increases. Retirees and experts alike stress that addressing their welfare is not only a supportive duty of the state but also a moral and legal obligation. The focus remains on implementing policies that ensure the long-term dignity and financial security of retirees, reinforcing the social contract between them and the state.