Call to Use Surplus for Retiree Pension Boost

TDT | Manama                                                      

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

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A surplus in Bahrain’s unemployment fund could soon provide much-needed financial support for retirees if MPs succeed in passing a newly proposed plan. the plan aims to establish an annual increase in pensions, helping retirees keep pace with the rising cost of living by drawing on spare funds from the unemployment pool until Bahrain’s main pension schemes achieve self-sustainability.

The move, backed by MPs Khalid BuAnuk, Eman Shuwaiter, Ahmed Abdulwahid Qaratah, Zainab Abdulameer, and Ali Al Nuaimi, seeks to ensure retirees maintain a decent standard of living. Supporters believe this annual top-up is essential for helping pensioners meet daily expenses and counter the impact of inflation.

Advocates for the plan say it reflects Bahrain’s longstanding values of caring for its citizens, echoing the Constitution’s commitment to supporting those facing old age, illness, or hardship. A recent review identified a surplus in the unemployment fund, which could be used effectively to support retirees without placing additional strain on the current pension system.

The proposal envisions this annual pension increase as a necessary step to help Bahrain’s pensioners enjoy a good quality of life. By tapping into the unemployment fund surplus, the plan would provide consistent assistance for retirees, allowing them to benefit from the nation’s economic growth.

Following a detailed review of Bahrain’s pension and social support systems, this plan was introduced to make prudent use of the growing surplus in the unemployment fund. MPs argue that these funds would be well-spent in helping retirees manage living costs and maintain a high quality of life.