Iranian Parliament Reviews Comprehensive Reforms to Strengthen Social Security System
In a significant step towards enhancing the nation’s social welfare framework, key legislative proposals aimed at reforming the Social Security Organization were presented and reviewed during a Sunday session of the Iranian Parliament’s Social Commission.
Key Legislative Proposals
The discussions, as reported by the Public Relations of the Social Security Organization, centered on a multi-faceted package of amendments. A primary focus was the proposed revision of Article 86 of the Social Security Law, which pertains to arduous and harmful professions. The reforms seek to establish a graded system for classifying these professions based on their difficulty, moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach for different jobs and regions.
Another critical proposal involves the mechanism for settling government debts to the Social Security Organization. The plan outlines various compensation methods, including cash payments, bonds, shares, and other assets.
Expanding Coverage and Streamlining Operations
Further measures discussed include expanding insurance coverage for workers, carpet weavers, and handicraft artists. A proposal was put forward to grant the Social Security Organization the authority to adjust the contribution shares of both employers and the insured, thereby facilitating broader access to its services for these groups.
To streamline the organization’s financial interactions, it was proposed that banks be legally permitted to exchange their receivables from the Social Security Organization for shares held by the organization in various companies.
Addressing Pensioner Employment and Financial Autonomy
The session also addressed the employment of Social Security pensioners in workshops requiring labor. The commission reviewed methods for allowing retirees to return to work without the suspension of their pensions, while requiring them to repay a portion of their insurance contributions.
A major point of discussion was the proposed return of the Workers’ Welfare Bank to the Social Security Organization. As the bank’s shares are fully owned by the organization, amendments to the Seventh Development Plan law are being considered to facilitate its reintegration as the financial arm of the Social Security Organization.
Leadership Commitment to Reform
Speaking on the sidelines of the meeting, Mostafa Salari, the Managing Director of the Social Security Organization, emphasized the need for corrective measures. He highlighted that certain improper practices have led to unnecessary costs and the wastage of the organization’s resources. Salari stated that the presented proposals are designed to facilitate a return to the organization’s core duties and legal mandates as defined by law.
He expressed gratitude for the commitment and cooperation of the parliament members, particularly the Social Commission, and expressed hope that through these legal amendments, payments outside the organization’s core mission would be prevented, thereby safeguarding its resources for their intended purpose.
