Baku: The social security of those affected by the Chernobyl disaster is being improved in Azerbaijan, as reflected 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,” discussed at today’s meeting of the Milli Majlis (Azerbaijani Parliament).
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, the law provides for one-time compensation to the victims for the damage caused to the health of persons with disabilities and families who have lost their breadwinners, depending on the degree of their disability. It also includes annual compensation for the damage caused to the health of participants in the liquidation of the Chernobyl accident consequences from 1986 to 1990. In connection with the unification of social benefits, the Law ‘On Social Benefits’ provides a one-time benefit for treatment annually for persons who were determined to be disabled due to the consequences of the accident at the Chernobyl NPP, but does not provide for the one-time compensation depending on the degree of disability mentioned above.
Additionally, from September 1, 2008, relevant presidential decrees established a monthly Presidential pension for those determined to be disabled due to the consequences of the accident at the Chernobyl NPP. In addition to the Presidential pension, the affected individuals are also paid an appropriate labor pension.
After discussions, the bill was put to a vote and passed in one reading.