The Director-General of the Social Security Corporation, Hazem Rahahleh, stated that the proposed amendments to the Social Security Law have sparked significant debate across various segments of Jordanian society. He described the discourse as a positive and healthy dialogue, given that social security is tied to the government and the future of successive generations. Therefore, it is natural for any amendments to the law to generate such discussions.

Speaking during a dialogue seminar organized by the Jordanian Masarat Foundation for Development and Progress to discuss the draft amendments to the Social Security Law, Rahahleh noted that the Corporation engaged in a comprehensive dialogue over the past 18 months, involving various stakeholders. He categorized the feedback into three main types:

1. Realistic stakeholders who engage positively and provide constructive feedback from the field.
2. Idealists who argue that no steps or amendments are necessary at this stage.
3. Skeptics who doubt the amendments and attribute them to external recommendations, often spreading misinformation.

Financial Stability of the Corporation

Rahahleh emphasized that the financial situation of the Social Security Corporation is stable, supported by actuarial studies. He revealed that the Corporation had transferred JD 300 million in surplus funds to the Social Security Investment Fund since the beginning of the year. The Corporation conducts an actuarial study of its financial position at least once every three years, as required by law. The tenth actuarial study showed an improvement in the break-even point between revenues and expenses, shifting from 2034 (as per the ninth study) to 2039. The second break-even point, representing the equality between total revenues and total expenses, moved from 2041 to 2050. These improvements are attributed to increased coverage and legislative amendments introduced in 2019.

Long-Term Sustainability

Rahahleh highlighted that the Corporation manages the rights of successive generations, aiming to ensure the long-term financial stability of the social security system. He noted that the Corporation’s current assets amount to JD 14 billion, which is expected to double to JD 28 billion by 2031. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Corporation achieved revenues of JD 350 million in the last two years and redirected surplus funds to social safety programs like the "Sustenance” program.

Dialogue and Amendments

The Corporation held over 45 dialogue sessions over 18 months to discuss the proposed amendments, resulting in a package of changes aimed at protecting the most vulnerable groups in society. Key proposed amendments include the introduction of health insurance, retirement reforms, and enhanced social protection measures. Rahahleh emphasized that these amendments aim to address emerging challenges and secure the rights of future generations.

Regarding health insurance, Rahahleh noted that past attempts had failed due to exaggerated fears and challenges. However, the Corporation is now fully prepared to implement health insurance once the amended law is approved.

Retirement Reforms

The amendments related to early retirement will not affect the majority of those eligible before 2043. Rahahleh explained that the average age of subscribers with less than seven years of contributions is currently 29, with 50% of them under the age of 27.

Enhanced Services

Rahahleh highlighted improvements in the Corporation’s services, which now rival those offered in advanced countries. These include electronic services, aerial medical evacuation, and instant injury treatment requests. Other initiatives include document digitization, electronic correspondence, and digital payment platforms like "Daman Pay."

Remarks from Dialogue Participants

MP Omar Ayasrah, who moderated the seminar, emphasized the importance of the proposed amendments for Jordanians. He called for a clear explanation of the rationale behind these amendments to address public concerns.

• Journalist Sami Al-Quraan: Highlighted the significant disparity in retirement salaries, which puts pressure on the Corporation's budget.
• Miada Abu Jaber: Stressed the importance of supporting working mothers and presented recommendations focused on female labor force participation.
• Asaad Al-Qawasmi, President of the Clothing Traders Association: Emphasized the need for liquidity to sustain economic growth and praised the Corporation's efforts to streamline procedures and raise awareness among employers.
• Ahmed Awad, Phenix Center for Studies: Commended the Corporation's financial stability and proposed recommendations for enhancing social protection.

The seminar concluded with a discussion on improving social safety nets, enhancing retirement sustainability, and addressing key challenges to ensure the long-term viability of the Social Security Corporation. Participants emphasized the importance of collaboration between the Corporation, government, and civil society in addressing these critical issues.