October 25th, 2019 -- Three officials from the SKN Social Security Board attended the World Social Security Forum that took place in Brussels, Belgium, from 14 to 18 October 2019, hosted by the International Social Security Association (ISSA), and the Public Social Security Institutions of Belgium. The Delegation included Hon Vance Amory, Minister of Social Security, Mr. Oscar Walters, Chairman of the Board of Directors, and Mr. Antonio Maynard, Director of the Social Security Board.
The theme of the Conference was “Protecting people in a changing world” and was the largest and most important international event for social security which involved more than 1,200 participants, from more than 150 countries from around the world. Attendees included Ministers, Administrators, CEOs and Senior Managers in social security administration and provided an unparalleled source of exclusive networking, knowledge and inspiration for ISSA member organizations.
The World Social Security Forum was open only to invited institutions and delegates of ISSA member organizations, in which St. Kitts and Nevis has been a prominent member for many years. The SKN Delegation took the opportunity also to meet and network and share experiences with several senior managers, professionals and world experts on Social Security matters in order to help shape the strategy and future endeavors of the SKN Social Security. The Officials specifically engaged ISSA and ILO (International Labour Organization) representatives on ways through which the relationship can be improved especially in the areas of capacity building and technical advice. Director of Social Security, Mr Antonio Maynard, in a brief interview, disclosed that the objective of the Forum was met and that it is his intention to follow up on the opportunities made available, especially as it relates to building capacity, training and technical support.
The Forum also elaborated, focused and confirmed the ten global challenges that are affecting the social security organizations around the world and discussed indepth the effect of same on the people and economy.
The 10 global challenges are outlined as follows:
1. Closing the coverage gap
2. Inequalities across the life course
3. Population ageing
4. Employment of young workers
5. Labour markets and the digital economy
6. Health and long-term care
7. New risks, shocks and extreme events
8. Protection of migrant workers
9. The technological transition
10. Higher public expectations
A major development that took place at the World Social Security Forum, was the launch of a new set of guidelines, along with revised ones by the International Social Security Association (ISSA) proposing an integrated approach on these issues.
The ISSA Guidelines offer social security managers access to concise and practical knowledge of international best practice in key areas of social security administration and present a virtual checklist of the essential elements which support good governance within the institution.
The completed and revised set of guidelines include:
1. Good Governance
2. Service Quality
3. Contribution Collection and Compliance
4. Information and Communication Technology
5. Investment of Social Security Funds
6. Promotion of Sustainable Employment
7. Communication by Social Security Administrations
8. Actuarial Work for Social Security
9. Administrative Solutions for Coverage Extension
10. Return to Work and Reintegration
11. Prevention of Occupational Risks
12. Workplace Health Promotion
13. Error, Evasion and Fraud in Social Security Systems
The World Social Security Forum, is held every three years.
Disclaimer
This article was posted in its entirety as received by SKNVibes.com. This media house does not correct any spelling or grammatical error within press releases and commentaries. The views expressed therein are not necessarily those of SKNVibes.com, its sponsors or advertisers
