Title: Parliamentary Focus on Livelihood Reforms: Pensions, Teacher Salaries, and Military Pay in Spotlight
In a significant development concerning social welfare and national service compensation, a member of the Iranian Parliament’s Development Commission has underscored the government’s imperative to address the livelihood demands of key societal pillars, including pensioners, teachers, and military personnel.
Acknowledging National Service and Sacrifice
Speaking in an interview, Mojtaba Yousefi, the MP from Ahvaz, began by paying tribute to the nation’s military, security, and law enforcement forces. He attributed the country’s enduring security and stability, despite decades of external pressure and a recent 12-day conflict, to the sacrifices of these personnel and the broader Iranian populace.
“The frontline of the country’s defense consists of our military and security forces,” Yousefi stated. “Their dedication to duty, despite personal challenges, is commendable and deserves appreciation.”
Addressing Legitimate Grievances
The MP directly addressed the economic concerns of these groups, acknowledging that their grievances regarding wages and living conditions are legitimate. He outlined the efforts of the 11th and 12th Parliaments to pursue these demands within the constraints of the national budget.
Yousefi emphasized that while parliament has acted within its authority, the executive branch holds a key responsibility. “Since budget proposals and salary increase percentages are presented by the government, it is necessary for the administration to take more serious action in this regard,” he said.
Clear Demands for the Government
The lawmaker laid out specific expectations for the coming months. He called on the government to present a budget supplement in the second half of the current fiscal year that provides for:
- The adjustment of salaries for military and law enforcement personnel.
- The correct implementation of the long-awaited teacher ranking system.
- The pension harmonization plan for retirees.
Yousefi assured that the Parliament stands ready to expedite the approval of such a supplementary budget. Furthermore, he stressed that the upcoming annual budget bill, expected within the next two to three months, must set salary increase coefficients for military personnel, teachers, and pensioners at a level that compensates for previous shortfalls, marking it a serious priority for MPs.
New Mechanism for Pension Adjustment
In a related and practical move, new regulations have been activated that, for the first time, allow for the review and potential increase of retirees’ pensions even after their retirement decree has been issued. This initiative, implemented within the framework of existing laws and amended internal bylaws, is seen as a crucial step toward improving the livelihood of retirees and their survivors.
According to official announcements, eligible retirees and survivors can now apply to the Social Security Organization branches. By submitting required documents, including their retirement decree, employment records, and identification papers, they can request a reassessment and adjustment of their pension.
Authorities have emphasized that this process offers a new opportunity for retirees whose pensions were initially calculated below the rightful amount or require recalibration due to changing circumstances. The review will be conducted in phases, based on approved laws and regulations, with any increases reflected in their new monthly decrees.