Ahmad Midari, Minister of Cooperatives, Labor, and Social Welfare, in a friendly meeting with retirees, referred to the root problems of the country and emphasized that the Fourteenth Government is seeking to reform the rules of policymaking, especially in the energy sector, instead of relying on short-term solutions.
Long-term Sanctions and Economic Challenges
Midari pointed out the approximately 15-year sanctions and direct military aggression since last year, stating: "The country has faced heavy pressures in recent years, and the war has imposed significant human, economic, and social costs on the country." He added that the damages of the war are not limited to the human aspect and have also had heavy economic repercussions. These pressures have affected not only Iran but also the global economy.
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The Necessity of Changing Policy-Making Patterns
The Minister of Cooperatives, Labor, and Social Welfare stated: "Part of today’s problems is the result of incorrect rules that have formed over the past decades." He referred to water, energy, and even public transportation consumption, noting that these issues have arisen based on rules that today manifest themselves in various problems and imbalances. He also pointed out that the pension system is not exempt from this situation.
Midari continued: "The government is seeking to change the rules of policymaking in various areas, including energy, financial discipline, and pensions. The main approach is to change the track of policymaking instead of managing the consequences with short-term solutions."
He also emphasized: "The government can manage some problems with short-term policies, but these actions may lead to an increase in liquidity and neglect of inflation control; therefore, sustainable solutions and constructive rules must be pursued simultaneously."
In another part of his speech, he addressed the living conditions of retirees, stating: "According to studies conducted, the pensions of retirees do not meet their needs, and the government's efforts over the past two years have been to bring pensions closer to the principle of adequacy." He added that various meetings have been held in this regard, and adjustments have been made according to the law.
Midari concluded by emphasizing that given the wartime conditions, any rate set for salary increases has still lagged behind the inflation rate.
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