Title: Landmark Commitment: Social Security Organization Pledges to Clear Majority of Pension Arrears by Late September
In a significant development for the nation’s retirees, the head of the Social Security Organization (SSO) has announced a concrete plan to address longstanding financial dues. This move underscores the organization’s commitment to its beneficiaries and its proactive approach to ensuring long-term stability.
A Three-Phase Payment Plan Announced
During an interactive meeting with representatives of the workforce and retirees in Fars province, Mr. Mostafa Salari, the Managing Director of the SSO, made a pivotal commitment. He pledged that approximately 80% of the backlogged payments owed to retirees across the country will be settled in three installments, concluding by the end of the Iranian month of Shahrivar (late September). This announcement marks a decisive step toward fulfilling the organization’s obligations to its pensioners.
Navigating Reform for a Sustainable Future
Mr. Salari emphasized that comprehensive reforms within the SSO are an “inescapable necessity” to rehabilitate the national pension fund. He described the organization as an intergenerational entity belonging to a vast segment of the population, including workers and retirees. Acknowledging that necessary reforms may attract criticism from certain quarters, Salari stated, “We will stand firm against pressures to safeguard the future of this fund, whose resources are a public trust.”
The Managing Director outlined the current financial landscape, noting the organization’s expenditures for the year stand at 1,500 trillion rials. Of this, 1,200 trillion rials are sourced from insurance premium receipts. He stressed the critical need to source additional funds from other avenues, such as investments, to bridge the gap, while also noting the limitations on pressuring employers for premiums to protect entrepreneurs and the workforce.
A Multifaceted Approach to Resource Management
Addressing the role of the Social Security Investment Company (SHASTA), Salari provided a realistic assessment, clarifying that even under an ideal scenario of maximum efficiency and tripled profits, SHASTA could only supply about 5% of the organization’s required resources. While committing to improving SHASTA’s performance, he highlighted the minor share it contributes to the overall resource pool.
Furthermore, Salari confirmed that the SSO is actively pursuing its claims from the government. He reported that 70 trillion rials of a total 185 trillion rials designated in this year’s national budget will be received in the near future.
Commitment to Service and Legal Integrity
The meeting also covered broader service delivery issues. Salari reiterated that providing the best services and achieving justice in medical services are top priorities for the organization. He promised that after necessary expert reviews and precise technical calculations, appropriate decisions would be made and announced transparently.
Concluding with a firm stance on governance, the Managing Director warned against any unlawful interference or actions against the interests of the SSO, which represents over 53% of the population. “Protecting this endowment and the future of a vast segment of society is a human, national, and religious duty,” Salari stated. “We will use all available capacities to protect this organization and will not allow the future of social security to be endangered.”
