Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the challenges and reforms in China's social security system, particularly focusing on the implications of the new regulations regarding social insurance contributions for flexible employment workers and the need for a more inclusive social security framework [4][5][6]. Group 1: Social Security Coverage - As of the end of 2024, China's basic pension and medical insurance systems cover approximately 1.066 billion and 1.326 billion people, respectively, marking a significant achievement in social security [4]. - The new regulations emphasize that any agreement between employers and employees to not pay social insurance is invalid, highlighting the mandatory nature of social insurance contributions [5][7]. - The current minimum social insurance contribution base is set at 60% of the average monthly wage of urban employees, which can create a financial burden for low-income workers [7][8]. Group 2: Employment and Social Insurance - The article notes that over 840 million new employment workers exist in China, representing about 21% of the total workforce, with many lacking adequate social insurance coverage [13][14]. - A significant portion of new employment workers, such as delivery riders, have low participation rates in social insurance, with over 60% of instant delivery riders not enrolled in basic pension insurance [14][15]. - The lack of social insurance among flexible employment workers is attributed to the imbalance of power between employers and employees, often leading to agreements that disadvantage workers [10][11]. Group 3: Legal and Institutional Reforms - The article highlights the need for legal reforms to address the gaps in social insurance coverage for flexible employment workers, as existing laws do not impose strict requirements on individual contractors and flexible workers [16][25]. - The introduction of pilot programs for occupational injury insurance in several provinces aims to provide some level of protection for workers in new employment forms, but these measures are seen as temporary solutions [16][19]. - The case of JD.com providing full social insurance for its delivery riders marks a significant shift in the industry, indicating a potential trend towards better social security for workers in the gig economy [17][19]. Group 4: Economic Implications - The article argues that while the short-term costs of providing social insurance may pressure profit margins, long-term benefits include enhanced competitiveness and employee loyalty [28][30]. - The median income of flexible employment workers is only 44.4% of the average social wage, which often forces them to prioritize immediate cash income over long-term social security benefits [26][27]. - The relationship between business ethics and economic efficiency is emphasized, suggesting that compliance with social insurance obligations can strengthen a company's market position and brand value [20][29].
全员社保:被看见的与被忽视的
36氪·2025-08-12 09:40