History of Welfare and Social Security in the World
Welfare and social security institutions have been forming in various societies for centuries. Initially, they were local charities and religious institutions that helped the needy and the poor. These institutions were mainly run by churches and local communities, providing basic services such as food, clothing, and shelter.
Transformation in the 19th Century:
With the advent of the Industrial Revolution and the increase in urbanization, the need for more cohesive and government-backed systems to support workers and their families grew. During this period, many countries began to introduce labor laws and social insurance systems to protect workers against illness, unemployment, and old age.
Development After World War II:
After World War II, many developed countries moved towards creating more comprehensive and extensive social security systems. These systems included health insurance, retirement, unemployment benefits, and welfare services for all citizens. The goal of these systems was to provide economic security and improve the quality of life for all individuals in society.
History and Developments of Welfare and Social Security in Iran
Welfare refers to a coordinated set of programs and activities carried out under government supervision and assistance to improve the lives of vulnerable individuals and groups in society, as defined by the United Nations. In Iran, the Welfare Bill was passed by the Islamic Consultative Assembly in 1980, leading to the establishment of the Welfare Organization of Iran.
From its inception, 52 responsibilities were assigned to this organization, including caring for orphaned children (nurseries and semi-family centers), supporting women without guardians and heads of households, overseeing community mental health, managing daycare centers, elderly care, services for the disabled, street children, women at risk, divorce reduction, counseling, employment and housing, pre-marriage education, and more.
Today, many countries have complex and comprehensive systems for welfare and social security that support various segments of society through different policies and programs.
Supporting Vulnerable Groups
One of the most important goals of welfare and social security systems is to support vulnerable groups in society. This support includes providing financial assistance, medical and counseling services, and rehabilitation programs. In Iran, the Welfare Organization and the Social Security Organization support vulnerable groups by offering various services such as financial aid to the needy, free or low-cost medical services, and rehabilitation programs for people with physical and mental disabilities.
These services help individuals cope better with life’s challenges and improve their quality of life. Additionally, educational and counseling programs can increase awareness and empowerment among these individuals.
Challenges and Opportunities in Iran
Welfare and social security in Iran face numerous challenges. Among these challenges are limited financial resources, inequality in service distribution, and lack of coordination between various institutions. Additionally, issues such as reduced government budgets, population growth, and increased demand for services have put more pressure on welfare and social security systems. However, there are also many opportunities to improve these systems. Below, we will highlight some successful global experiences in this field.
Global Experiences
- Using Modern Technologies in Service Delivery: Countries have increased the efficiency and transparency of their systems by using modern technologies such as information systems and data mining. For example, the use of digital technologies in managing social insurance and welfare information has helped services to be provided more accurately and quickly.
- Developing Educational Programs: Educational and skill enhancement programs play a crucial role in reducing unemployment and increasing employability. These programs aim to strengthen individuals’ capabilities and improve their educational and job skills.
- Increasing Transparency in Welfare and Social Security Systems: Enhancing transparency and accountability in these systems improves public trust and prevents corruption. Providing transparent financial reports and public access to information are among the actions taken in this regard.
Welfare Organization and Its Duties in Guardianship
The Welfare Organization of Iran is a supportive institution that, based on existing laws and regulations, offers preventive, social, rehabilitative, and educational services to maintain and enhance health and social welfare indicators. This organization was formed in 1980 by merging 14 organizations, associations, supportive units, hospitals, and more.
In 2004, according to the law structuring the Ministry of Welfare and Social Security, this organization, along with the Social Security Organization and the Health Insurance Organization, was separated from the Ministry of Health, Treatment, and Medical Education and joined the Ministry of Cooperatives, Labour, and Social Welfare.
According to the Law on the Protection of Children and Adolescents Without Guardians and Guardianship passed in 2013, significant duties have been assigned to the Welfare Organization. The goal is to define the role, position, and intervention limits of the Welfare Organization in the adoption process. Subsequently, the concept of adoption, related regulations, and procedures were reviewed.
Conclusion
Improving welfare and social security institutions requires the participation of all members of society. Creative artists and interested individuals can help improve the performance of these organizations with their ideas and innovations. We invite you to contribute your opinions and suggestions to improve the quality of life for individuals and enhance welfare and social security services. Let’s start a new chapter of growth and improvement for these high-potential institutions together.
Resources:
Iravani, M. (2012). A social work study on welfare receivers’ quality of life. Management Science Letters, 2, 221-228
Manasa, B., & Naik, C. (2016). Employee Welfare and Social Security; A Study of Select Cement Units in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Paripex Indian Journal Of Research, 5
Cuadrado-Ballesteros, B., Mordán, N., & García-Sánchez, I. (2014). Is Local Financial Health Associated with Citizens’ Quality of Life?. Social Indicators Research, 119, 559-580
