MUSCAT: In the Majlis Ash'shura ’s recent session, Bader al Jabri, representing Nakhl, made a pressing call for reform of Oman’s social benefits and family income support system. He urged a thorough review of eligibility criteria, benefit calculations, and distribution mechanisms to ensure that support reaches those most in need.
Al Jabri argued that the current family income benefit of RO 40 falls significantly short of meeting basic living standards, especially for families with young children. He emphasised that benefits should reflect a 'decent living' standard and be regularly adjusted to address changing economic and social needs.
Proposing a data-driven approach, Al Jabri highlighted the importance of ongoing assessments to ensure that benefits meet families’ real needs, advocating for a flexible and adaptable system that responds to economic shifts. He also recommended increasing support for families facing particular hardships, such as elderly members or severe financial distress, and suggested that policies be updated routinely to remain effective and relevant.
In his address, Al Jabri called for simplification of the benefit application and distribution processes, suggesting that more accessible procedures would alleviate challenges faced by families trying to secure essential support. Streamlined processes, he argued, would also promote transparency and encourage wider utilisation of the social protection system, especially among marginalised communities.
Al Jabri further highlighted the need for regular policy evaluations, advocating for a robust feedback system to incorporate the lived experiences of beneficiaries.
He also emphasised that by prioritising social equity and inclusivity, Oman’s social benefits framework could more effectively enhance the well-being of citizens and contribute to national development.
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