Title: Parliament Affirms Pensioners’ Rights, Advocates for Enhanced Support Amid Economic Challenges
Introduction
In a significant political development, a senior member of Iran’s Parliament has strongly defended the rights of retirees to receive their pensions and pursue employment, emphasizing the government’s duty to support this segment of society. The statements from Ali Jafari-Azar, Deputy Head of the Parliament’s Social Commission, highlight a legislative focus on safeguarding social welfare amid broader economic pressures.
Pension is an “Inherent Right”
Responding to recent commentary from the Social Security Organization, Jafari-Azar firmly stated that a retiree’s pension is their “inherent right,” earned through years of insurance contributions. He explained that the current economic climate, marked by inflation and livelihood challenges, is forcing many pensioners to re-enter the workforce contrary to the natural logic of retirement. This, he argued, is a reality that must be met with understanding and support, not restriction.
No Legal Barrier to Employment for Pensioners
The parliamentarian categorically stated that there is no legal contradiction preventing retirees from working. He noted that over 90% of pensioners are active in various sectors, including ride-hailing services like Snapp and Tapsi, medical offices, and security roles. “Which law states that a retiree receiving a pension should not have economic activity?” Jafari-Azar questioned, adding that no legislation or proposal to ban pensioner employment has ever been reviewed by the Social Commission.
Social Security’s Role: Facilitator, Not Obstacle
Jafari-Azar criticized recent remarks from Social Security officials as detrimental to the retiree community. He underscored that the core mission of the Social Security Organization is to support pensioners in their old age. Instead of creating new problems, he asserted, the organization should focus on improving retirees’ living conditions and addressing their serious concerns regarding basic and supplementary insurance. He warned against approaches that would add to the pressures they face.
A Contrasting Viewpoint from Social Security
The parliamentary stance contrasts with the position of the Social Security Organization. Mohammad Ebrahim Javaheri, the organization’s Legal Deputy, has stated that without the passage of a specific bill for driver insurance currently before Parliament, the simultaneous employment of pensioners in ride-hailing services and receipt of a pension would be considered illegal under existing regulations. He clarified that pensions are intended for those considered “non-employed,” and without the new law, retirees would not be permitted to engage in such activities, setting the stage for further legislative discussion.