Tunisian Social Affairs Minister Addresses Social Security and Private Medicine Concerns

Tunisian Minister of Social Affairs, Issam Al-Hamr, has announced a new vision for the social security program, which aims to provide better support to citizens. The program, set to be implemented in the medium and long term, will be evaluated every five years. Al-Hamr made the announcement during a joint session of the National Council of Regions and Districts and the Assembly of People's Representatives, where the ministry's budget for the upcoming year was being discussed.

Al-Hamr highlighted the challenges facing the current social security system, including a reliance on diversifying funding sources to support its funds. He noted that this approach has become the only means of financing its deficit, due to delays in implementing necessary reforms. The minister recalled a proposal submitted by the ministry in 2025 to address this issue. He emphasized that overcoming these challenges requires maintaining the current contributory system while strengthening it with non-contributory elements.

The minister also discussed the issue of private medicine, which has been a subject of concern for many Tunisians. Al-Hamr explained that the problem lies in the fact that many private medicines are not included in the basic healthcare system and are not covered by the National Health Insurance Fund. These medicines are often expensive and do not have marketing licenses in Tunisia, leading to delays in obtaining them.

To address these challenges, Al-Hamr emphasized the need to review the legal framework for complementary social security systems and to complete the process of resolving problems related to the coverage of cooperative and insurance companies. He noted that these companies currently bear the costs of expensive medicines and surgical operations, which has put a strain on the funds.

The minister also highlighted the ministry's efforts to promote digitalization and reduce the need for new social security branches. He announced plans to establish several new centers for distributing medicines in different regions of the country, including Rades, Akkar, and Sakhira. Additionally, the ministry is considering establishing a new structure to coordinate between different funds and unify their policies and positions.

Regarding the proposal to impose a new social tax on value-added services to address the challenges facing social security funds, Al-Hamr emphasized the need for a thorough study to ensure that the solution does not create new problems. He noted that such proposals are often temporary and do not provide a long-term solution, and that a more comprehensive approach is needed to achieve sustainable balance.

In conclusion, Al-Hamr reiterated the ministry's commitment to addressing the challenges facing the social security system and improving the availability of private medicines. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive and sustainable approach to address these issues and ensure that all Tunisians have access to quality healthcare.

Key points

• The Tunisian government is working to develop a new social security program that provides better support to citizens.
• The program will be evaluated every five years to ensure its effectiveness.
• The minister emphasized the need to review the legal framework for complementary social security systems to address the challenges facing the funds.