Baku: The social security of individuals affected by the Chernobyl disaster is set to improve in Azerbaijan, as highlighted in the proposed amendments to the “Law on the Status and Social Protection of Citizens Who Participated in the Liquidation of the Chernobyl Disaster and Were Affected by It.” The amendments were discussed during a meeting of the Labor and Social Policy Committee of the Milli Majlis (Azerbaijani Parliament).

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the law provides for one-time compensation to victims based on the degree of disability, including those with disabilities and families who have lost their breadwinners. It also includes annual compensation for health damages to those who participated in the liquidation of the Chernobyl accident’s consequences from 1986 to 1990. The “Law on Social Benefits” offers a one-time treatment benefit annually for individuals disabled due to the Chernobyl accident but does not currently account for one-time compensation based on disability severity.

Additionally, since September 1, 2008, relevant presidential decrees have established a monthly Presidential pension for those disabled due to the Chernobyl accident. These individuals also receive an appropriate labor pension in conjunction with the Presidential pension.