Iraq builds social security system to protect workers

Baghdad (IraqiNews.com) – The Iraqi Parliament voted on Wednesday to adopt the new Social Security Law which introduces far-reaching reforms to the social security system for private-sector workers, according to a statement issued by the International Labor Organization (ILO).

The new law, which will replace Law No. 39 on Pension and Social Security for Private-Sector Workers of 1979, brings the social security system for private sector workers in closer alignment with ILO Social Security Convention, 1952 (No. 102), which was officially ratified by the Iraqi government in March 2023, the statement explained.

The law significantly expands the legal coverage of the social security system, covering all workers including informal workers, the self-employed and contributing family workers, the statement clarified.

It also expands the range of entitlements to include maternity and unemployment benefits for the first time, the statement elaborated.

The law will also provide health insurance obtained from public, cooperative, and private providers, according to the statement.

A statement issued by the Labor and Civil Society Organizations Committee highlighted the law was among the priority draft laws in the government program, in response to the developments of the current situation as well as the future, and in line with the ILO’s appeal to expand coverage to the private sector, the statement illustrated.

Under the European Union funded program to reform social protection, the ILO has been working with the government, employer and worker representatives, and the parliamentary committee to review the social security law, the statement mentioned.  

The ILO and partners will also embark on an awareness raising campaign for workers and employers on their rights and responsibilities under the social security law, in efforts to support the expansion of coverage to more workers, the statement added.