Social security systems are facing new challenges that differ
significantly from those experienced decades ago, and which
involve major implications for their financing. There is a wide
consensus on what is expected from social security systems -
coverage extension and the provision of adequate benefits.
However, these objectives must be achieved while ensuring mid-
and long-term financial sustainability of benefit programmes.
This is a particular challenge in several areas of social
security: in particular, for pensions due to the ageing of the
population, and for medical care due to increased related costs.
And, of course, these challenges must be considered in the light
of globalization and an increasingly precarious labour market.
The ultimate objective of social security systems is to honour
benefits when they are due. This means, first of all, being
financially sustainable. How is social security financed?
National social security schemes contribute to the social
protection of the population through the