Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
The International Social Security Association (ISSA) is on a mission to broaden coverage for vulnerable populations, driving global strategies and integrating rehabilitation as a pillar of social security, said its President Dr. Mohammed Azman.
In an interview with Aletihad on the sidelines of the World Congress on Rehabilitation 2024 in Abu Dhabi, Dr. Azman said that ISSA's Vision Zero programme underlines collaboration among 333 member institutions from 162 countries.
Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Board of the Zayed Higher Organisation for People of Determination, the conference brought together key speakers from around the world.
Discussing the key strategies countries can adopt to ensure long-term sustainability and accessibility of rehabilitation through social security systems, Dr. Azman highlighted the need for a multi-faceted approach that includes adequate funding, policy alignment, and technological integration.
"Firstly, governments must prioritise investment in rehabilitation services and ensure that funding mechanisms are aligned with long-term goals. Secondly, policies must be inclusive, targeting vulnerable populations and addressing their specific rehabilitation needs," he said.
Speaking about his leadership at ISSA, Dr. Azman said he focuses on promoting a more holistic approach to social security, one that recognises the crucial role rehabilitation plays in restoring dignity and independence to individuals.
"I am a firm believer in 'prevention before rehabilitation and rehabilitation before compensation.' Moving forward, we have actively worked to ensure that social security systems worldwide not only provide financial protection but also facilitate access to rehabilitation, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the disabled, elderly, and injured workers," he said.
Dr. Azman also discussed the challenges and opportunities in expanding social security systems to enhance access to rehabilitation services.
"The challenges lie primarily in resource allocation and the coordination of services across sectors. Many countries face difficulties in funding comprehensive rehabilitation programmes while ensuring that these services remain accessible to all who need them."
He also noted that digital solutions enhance rehabilitation efficiency and accessibility, particularly through tele-rehabilitation and data-driven decision-making, strengthening resilience within social security systems.
"The key lesson is that rehabilitation should not be seen as a separate or secondary service but as an integral part of a comprehensive social security strategy," he said.
Hailing from Malaysia, Dr. Azman mentioned his country's Employment Insurance System (EIS) which linked unemployment protection with rehabilitation and retraining services, helping displaced/unemployed workers regain their footing.
This approach can inspire global advancements in linking rehabilitation with social security, he noted.
"Malaysia has made significant strides in integrating social security with occupational health, particularly through programmes like the Return-To-Work initiative, managed by PERKESO."
"This initiative combines medical care, rehabilitation, and vocational training to help injured and disabled workers reintegrate into the workforce, promoting improved health outcomes and economic participation," he said.
Moving to ISSA's international collaborations, Dr. Azman said that they provide a unique platform for knowledge sharing and capacity building.
"By facilitating the exchange of best practices and innovations, we can collectively improve the effectiveness of rehabilitation programmes globally.
Furthermore, ISSA's collaborative projects help countries design and implement tailored solutions that address specific needs, whether they relate to policy development, technological advancement, or workforce training."
