CAIRO - 30 May 2024: Social protection programs are widely recognized as essential pillars of public policy, particularly for nations striving for development. They serve as a vital safety net for vulnerable segments of society, ensuring access to necessities and securing minimum incomes. The Egyptian state, drawing from its rich historical experience, has long been at the forefront of implementing such programs, utilizing various mechanisms including cash and in-kind assistance and emergency interventions during times of crisis.
Recently, Egypt went through a legislative push that reflects a fundamental shift in the approach to social protection, moving beyond mere relief efforts towards a human rights-oriented framework that views it as integral to the right to development. Consequently, extensive legislative and institutional reforms have been undertaken to establish accurate databases and design procedural mechanisms tailored to current economic conditions.
The Egyptian House of Representatives has given its final approval to a series of draft laws. The approved draft laws encompass a range of provisions aimed at enhancing benefits for civil servants and pensioners:
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Acceleration of Payments and Bonus Increases: A proposed draft law seeks to expedite the payment of periodic bonuses, introduce special bonuses for individuals not covered by the Civil Service Law, increase additional incentives for state workers, allocate special grants for employees in public sector companies and the public business sector, and raise pension amounts.
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Amendments to Social Insurance and Pensions Laws: Another draft law focuses on amending certain provisions of the Social Insurance and Pensions Law enacted under Law No. 148 of 2019.
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Enhancements to Disability Rights Legislation: Laws No. 80 of 2017 and No. 99 of 2018, about pension increases and amendments to provisions of the Disability Rights Law under Law No. 10 of 2018, are set to undergo modifications.
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Revision of Social Insurance and Pensions Law: Further revisions are planned for Law No. 148 of 2019, governing social insurance and pensions.
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Pension Increases: Law 371 concerning pension hikes effective from 7/1/2020 and Resolution 260 of 2021 regarding additional pension increases starting from 7/1/2021 are also part of the approved legislative package.
These reforms underscore Egypt's commitment to improving the welfare of its citizens and promoting inclusive economic growth. By addressing the evolving needs of its populace and ensuring equitable access to social protection, the government aims to uplift disadvantaged groups, alleviate poverty, and foster economic empowerment in line with its vision for societal transformation.
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