Framing the Need for Pension and Social Security Reform - fundsforngos.org
Although it does not provide details, this article posted at fundsforngos.org offers a framework for understanding the criticality of reform measures to sustain programs designed to ensure that retirees can maintain a basic standard of living after they have stopped working. Addressing the commonalities between pension plans and Social Security–both of which face the perils of underfunding–the article cites the impact of changing demographics leading to assumptions no longer compatible with current economics.
Beyond identifying the importance of working toward sustainability, the article focuses on strategies for creating engagement among stakeholders, centering on the need for public education on the problems facing retirement funding. “This can be achieved through community forums, social media campaigns, and partnerships with local organizations. Additionally, building coalitions with other advocacy groups can amplify efforts to push for reform. By uniting various stakeholders—such as labor unions, senior citizen organizations, and economic think tanks—advocates can present a united front to policymakers.” Most importantly, the article stresses that retiree involvement via the sharing of stories and experiences is key, as is the criticality of building into reforms an awareness of future retirees’ concerns and needs to promote acceptance of changes when they’re implemented.
Consider this a thought-provoking article on the importance of strategically developing reform measures for Social Security. The specifics, of course, need to be considered at the appropriate time, but input from as many affected and informed segments of the population as possible will be essential.