Mr. Baitas, who was answering questions during a press briefing held after the meeting of the Government Council, affirmed that the implementation of the direct social assistance program demonstrates the government’s determination to move forward in realizing the fundamental pillars of the social state, noting that “the social state is not a slogan, but rather a reality that is reflected in the sectors of health, education, employment and financing, as well as in the social protection project, launched by HM the King.”
He stressed that social assistance “represents an important turning point in public action and public policies, under the leadership of HM the King”, noting that this important project concerns all Moroccans and requires the contribution of the various stakeholders.
After recalling the efforts made to consecrate the social protection system and the progress made in sectoral reform projects, particularly in the areas of health, access to housing and employment, he noted that the government’s action is now based, with regard to the social state, on a horizontal approach instead of a vertical approach.
“The government is working to establish the foundations for restructuring the operating mechanisms of social solidarity systems, based on protection and dignity for all,” he stressed, noting that direct aid is not only linked to the targeted categories, but will also make it possible to generalize the social security network, by integrating people in precarious situations into the traditional and regular social security network, which is based on health, education, housing, AMO solidarity and direct aid.
Mr. Baitas noted in this regard that the basic compulsory health insurance scheme for people who cannot pay the subscription fees “AMO Solidarité” currently has around 10 million beneficiaries.
He also recalled that the implementation of the social assistance project will require a budget of 25 billion dirhams during the year 2024, stressing that the payment of compensation will begin towards the end of the current year.
Furthermore, the minister stressed that priority in the coming months will be given to the granting of compensation before gradually starting the reform of the Compensation Fund, noting that reforms at the level of this year’s Finance Law are in harmony with the recommendations developed during the national conference on taxation.
The government is adopting a progressive path in building and consolidating the pillars of the social state, he continued, adding that in the coming years, the government will launch reforms and initiatives in favor of the middle class, considering its role in society.
2024-08-21 12:43:39