The Ombudsman, Naim Qelaj, has stressed that pensioners in Kosovo face numerous difficulties and administrative barriers to receiving their pension rights. He commented on the Supreme Court's decision that declared illegal the administrative instruction that forced pensioners to appear in person to confirm that they are alive, considering this decision fair.
Qelaj underlined the need for reforms in the pension system, not only in financial terms, but also in the provision of health and social services for pensioners, especially those over 65, who often face a lack of services for people with mental health disorders.
Support the TIME. Preserve the truth.
Professional journalism is in the public interest. Your support helps it remain independent and credible. Contribute too. 1 euro makes a difference.
Letter to the Reader — Why We're Asking for Your Support Contribute"I think pensioners are the most discriminated category in society at the moment. In every segment where we have investigated, we have received complaints or received information from civil society that discrimination is occurring, and we have investigated it, and in relation to pensioners, the situation has turned out badly."
The lawyer criticized the use of bylaws that violate the principle of legality and create obstacles for citizens, citing similar cases with customs and commissions for persons with disabilities. The Supreme Court ruled that the paragraphs of the instruction that prohibited the payment of pensions for failure to declare life status are unlawful, adding that the responsibility for verification lies with the Ministry and not the pensioner.
Currently, the old-age pension in Kosovo is 150 euros, while the contributory pension ranges from 218 to 318 euros per month, depending on the level of education./EO