In the United States

The U.S. is regarded as having exemplary SS programs compared to other nations. These include retirement, survivor, and disability insurance; unemployment insurance (UI); health insurance and medical welfare; and SS for indigenous people. Among these, the largest program is retirement, survivor, and disability insurance, effectively implemented to secure benefits for eligible participants.

For instance, to receive retirement benefits, employees must meet age conditions: a minimum of 62 years for early retirement, 67 years for full retirement (for those born after 1960), or 70 years for enhanced benefits under the "deferred retirement" concept. This allows employees to choose to continue working and delay benefits until age 70 for higher pensions.

For survivor benefits, recipients receive monthly allowances rather than lump-sum payments, approximately $255 per month, adjusted to actual needs and circumstances.

In the case of disability insurance, beneficiaries include workers who contributed to disability insurance and became disabled under any circumstances. They are entitled to support under the disability insurance program.

Regarding unemployment insurance, Americans receive maximum benefits significantly higher than those in other countries. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, unemployed workers could receive up to $1,000 per week in benefits.

This demonstrates the U.S. commitment to citizens' welfare, addressing employment and unemployment issues, which directly impact economic development. However, one limitation is that it may create dependency among workers relying on unemployment benefits, reducing motivation and increasing unemployment during crises like COVID-19.

Additionally, the U.S. implements SS programs for low-income individuals, including Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and charity initiatives to help stabilize lives.

In Japan
Japan, an early adopter of SS policies in Asia, incorporated social security guarantees into its 1946 Constitution. Article 25 of the 1946 Constitution states: "All citizens shall have the right to maintain the minimum standards of wholesome and cultured living."

Since 1946, Japan has developed a flexible SS system that fosters economic growth while promoting social equity and justice. The state plays a central role in SS through insurance and welfare schemes, including social insurance (SI), employment insurance, health care insurance, and social assistance.

Social Insurance:
Japan's SI includes retirement insurance, health insurance, and labor insurance (employment insurance and accident compensation insurance). The retirement insurance scheme, considered the most important, is multi-layered, offering public and private pension options. Employment insurance supports workers financially during unemployment while helping maintain societal job stability.

The Employment Insurance Fund is supported by contributions from workers, employers, and the government. However, Japan has faced challenges due to economic downturns, including increased unemployment rates and imbalances between contributors and beneficiaries, impacting SS implementation.

Health Care Insurance:
Japan mandates participation in one of two health insurance options, with premiums calculated based on income. The average health care contribution is approximately 22% of the monthly salary, with an additional 1% cost for exceeding the basic coverage.

Japan’s community-based SS achievements make it a model for many countries. Its policies have significantly contributed to social stability, economic growth, and equity.

Policy Implications for Vietnam
Studying U.S. and Japanese SS policies reveals that ensuring SS is a critical government priority to promote social progress, justice, economic stability, and improved living standards. However, given each country's unique socio-economic conditions, the following recommendations are suggested for Vietnam:

Revising Social Insurance Contribution Periods:
Consider reducing the mandatory SI contribution period from 20 years to 15 or even 10 years, as in the U.S., to attract more participants. Additionally, establish stricter policies for lump-sum withdrawals to encourage long-term participation. Unlike Vietnam, U.S. workers receive only monthly retirement benefits, without lump-sum options.

Strengthening Institutional Frameworks:
Drawing from Japan’s experience, Vietnam should institutionalize SS into specific laws and policies to create a legal framework for unified and effective implementation. A flexible and comprehensive SS system can attract more participants across social insurance, health insurance, and unemployment insurance.

Developing a Multi-Layered SS System:
Emulate Japan’s multi-tiered SS model, where the state plays a pivotal role while encouraging privatization and socialization of SS services. Flexible design and interrelated policies can strengthen the SS system’s appeal and effectiveness in Vietnam's context of international integration.

By adapting and innovating from international experiences, Vietnam can further improve its SS system, ensuring sustainability and socio-economic progress.