Iranian Pension Fund Outlines Comprehensive Plan to Address Retirees’ Needs and Structural Reforms
In a significant move to address long-standing challenges, the acting head of Iran’s National Pension Fund has detailed a multi-pronged strategy aimed at resolving structural issues and improving the quality of life for retirees. The plan emphasizes scientific solutions, economic productivity, and enhanced coordination between government branches.
Direct Engagement to Tackle Accumulated Challenges
Alaeddin Azouji, speaking at a meeting with heads of pensioner associations in Kerman province, stated that the fund’s goal is to establish direct communication with associations across the country. “Through in-person and online meetings, we are planning to compensate for the accumulated shortcomings and deficiencies of at least the past two decades,” Azouji explained. This grassroots approach is intended to identify and resolve pressing issues directly.
Addressing Structural and Economic Weaknesses
Azouji highlighted that the current difficulties within pension funds are rooted in structural and economic weaknesses accumulated over recent decades. He pointed to issues related to assets, real estate, and economic activities, stressing the need for a productivity-focused approach. “We must utilize these resources more appropriately by moving towards a generative economic model,” he stated.
He further elaborated that while education has expanded nationally, sufficient attention has not been paid to the economic empowerment of the people. This has led to a decrease in income attractiveness and, consequently, weaknesses in the pension and insurance systems. “Strengthening the performance of the funds is an essential step to creating a sense of security for future generations,” Azouji affirmed.
Reforming a Flawed Economic Cycle
A key challenge identified is a flawed cycle in the labor market. “The late entry of young people into the job market and their early exit from it has severely reduced the payment resources of the funds and caused a structural weakness in the demographic and livelihood pyramid,” Azouji emphasized.
He also critiqued a national economic focus that has shifted away from production. “Unfortunately, in the country’s economy, the main focus, instead of being on developing production and productive investment, has been directed towards non-productive assets such as land, coins, and housing. This perspective has distanced the national economy from the correct path of production and public participation.”
A Scientific Approach to Sustainable Solutions
Azouji expressed confidence that the existing problems within the funds can be resolved by adhering to scientific and expert principles. “A retiree who has served for years in the country’s education system should not face serious livelihood problems in their time,” he remarked. He noted that the disruption of price proportionality in the economy undermines work incentives and livelihood justice.
To address the funds’ imbalances, he called for effective collaboration between development and pension funds to steer investments towards sustainable and real returns.
Immediate Action on Supplementary Insurance
Providing a crucial update on a key concern for retirees, Azouji addressed the issue of supplementary insurance. “Although the fund’s debt to Mellat Insurance is significant, we have started payments this week,” he announced. “We plan for 70% of the paid resources to be directly allocated to retirees’ invoices so that the positive impact is tangible for them.”
Regarding Dana Insurance, he added that the settlement of debts to private hospitals is underway. “We are making every effort, with the cooperation of the government and the support of parliament representatives, to fundamentally resolve the problems of retirees’ supplementary insurance within the next few months.”
Streamlining Economic Ventures and Enhancing Livelihoods
The official also spoke on the necessity of reorganizing the fund’s economic companies within the legal framework of the country’s seventh development plan. Companies will be categorized as profitable, revivable, or loss-making, with the goal of strengthening the first group, rebuilding the second, and decisively addressing the third.
On improving retirees’ quality of life, Azouji stated that facilities like “Hope Houses” should become havens of peace and joy. He outlined plans for health villages, sports, lifestyle education, and strengthened recreational programs to enhance their sense of well-being. He stressed the need for agility and structural reform within the funds to ensure that retirees feel decisions are made in their best interests.
A Call for Unified Action
In conclusion, Azouji underscored that resolving pensioners’ issues requires complete coordination between the government, parliament, and the Plan and Budget Organization. “Through extensive cooperation, a better life and a more secure future can be provided for the country’s retirees,” he affirmed.
The meeting in Kerman provided a platform for retirees to voice their concerns in a friendly atmosphere, covering topics such as supplementary health insurance, payment arrears, and the need to revive travel and welfare programs for pensioners.