Kazakhstan Enhances Social Code to Boost Citizens’ Well-being
Kazakhstan to Launch New Social Code on July 1, Providing Increased Support for Citizens
Kazakhstan is set to implement new norms of the Social Code on July 1, which will serve as a proactive instrument of social support for its citizens. The Prime Minister’s press service reported the launch of this new code, which aims to enhance the population’s quality of life.
At a government meeting chaired by Prime Minister Alikhan Smailov on June 27, Minister of Labor and Social Protection of Population Tamara Duissenova explained that the Social Code will regulate social support in the country. Some rules have already been in effect since the beginning of the year.
The Social Code addresses a wide range of issues related to social support, including support from birth to adulthood, employment, labor safety, social insurance, assistance during challenging life situations, and support for senior citizens.
To strengthen social protection for motherhood and childhood, the government has introduced additional measures such as extending the payment period for childcare to 1.5 years. This assistance has been provided to over 450,000 families. Additionally, starting from July 1, the allowance given to mothers with many children will increase, benefiting nearly 90,000 women.
The Social Code also focuses on assisting individuals with disabilities. Benefit rates paid to people with disabilities, their guardians, and families who have lost their breadwinners will increase by 14.5%. Combined with an 8.5% increase in benefits at the beginning of the year, overall payments will now increase by 23%.
According to Prime Minister Smailov, the measures proposed in the code will align the social protection system with international standards. He emphasized that the code will lead to a phased increase in pensions, with the size of the basic pension expected to rise by an average of 51% by 2027. This will benefit over 2 million pensioners. By 2025, these measures will result in an average increase of 27% in total pensions (solidarity + basic).
The Prime Minister also announced that citizens will be able to transfer 50% of their pension assets to trust management, ensuring future pensions. The remaining savings will remain in the Unified Accumulative Pension Fund.
Furthermore, state social benefits will increase by another 14.5% from July 1, reaching a total increase of 23%. The proof of disability will be established proactively, eliminating the need for mandatory visits to medical institutions and obtaining confirmation. Independent experts, including experienced doctors, will provide the necessary conclusion.
As part of the new code, labor mobility centers will be launched nationwide. These centers will establish a single database of jobs in the regions, making it easier for individuals to search for employment opportunities.
The introduction of the new Social Code demonstrates Kazakhstan’s commitment to improving the social welfare of its citizens and aligning its social support system with international standards.
