One of the major shortcomings in the long-standing policies of Afghan governments has been the failure to provide timely and adequate attention to the rights of retired civil servants. These are individuals who dedicated the best years of their lives to serving the country’s institutions, educational centers, military services, and other governmental sectors. However, now, in the final stages of their lives, they face numerous financial, health, and social challenges.
For years, they contributed to strengthening Afghanistan’s administration and development, setting examples of honesty and commitment in the fields of security, education, economy, and more. Yet, now that they are no longer capable of active service, they are deprived of their rightful entitlements. Many retired Afghan civil servants struggle to meet their basic needs and live under harsh economic conditions.
The Afghan caretaker government is responsible for ensuring these individuals receive their rightful benefits. This is not only a moral and legal obligation but also a fundamental requirement of a just and civilized system. The pensions of government employees are a portion of the funds they contributed through various taxes and deductions during their employment. Therefore, paying these pensions is not just their legitimate right but also a duty of the state.
At present, although Afghanistan is facing economic difficulties, such challenges cannot justify the neglect of retirees’ rights. The government must establish a transparent and systematic mechanism to provide financial support to retired civil servants, ensuring that every pensioner receives their due payments on time. Failing to deliver these pensions not only exacerbates the financial hardships of these individuals but also discourages those currently working in government institutions. This situation leads to a decline in the quality of public administration, reduced commitment among employees, and the loss of valuable human resources.
The non-payment of pensions to retired civil servants has long-term negative consequences for society. If the government continuously fails to recognize the value of its employees’ efforts, it will increase distrust toward public institutions among future generations. Young people may lose interest in government jobs, as witnessing the struggles of pension-deprived retirees may lead them to prefer opportunities in the private sector or consider migration instead.
The Afghan caretaker government must take concrete steps to address this issue. First, the process of pension distribution must be made transparent, with a clear schedule for those still awaiting their payments. Second, the state pension fund must be strengthened to ensure that pension payments are made regularly and on time. Third, the government should identify sustainable economic resources to finance the pension system and establish a mechanism that guarantees its stability.
In conclusion, the Afghan caretaker government must urgently prioritize the rights of its retired civil servants, take practical measures to resolve their issues, and reassure them that they have not been forgotten by the state. Failure to act on this matter will lead to the deterioration of public institutions, increased employee dissatisfaction, and greater social challenges. The government must take immediate steps to resolve this crisis.
