There are several definitions of social security. In some sources, security is described as a level of confidence in which society and community play a fundamental role. In other texts, social security relates to the ability to maintain traditional patterns, culture, religion, identity, and national customs while allowing for acceptable conditions of transformation.
Another definition of social security describes it as “the peace and comfort that society provides for its members.” The specific feature of this type of security is that the society is responsible for creating it, making the establishment of security for people and the community one of society’s goals and duties. This includes supporting individuals and their families against economic or personal misfortunes, such as uncertain health and life conditions.
Nowadays, the concept of social security—regarding its form and appearance—no longer merely implies the absence of crimes and violations; it encompasses spiritual, health, and economic aspects as well. Ultimately, it contributes to the creation of real and reasonable stability and order in society, which is what social security entails.
Some people define social security as “the assurance that repels fear and terror from individuals and communities in all areas of worldly prosperity and in the afterlife.”
Social security is one of the facets of security that experts define as the preservation of the social system and the country’s sovereignty. It ensures that the community, family, and individuals are safe from economic, social, and personal threats and anomalies and are confident about their well-being. In a society where social security is established, people’s hope and confidence in the future increase, fostering a desire for a healthy life that flourishes in their hearts.
The essence of social security lies in people not feeling fear, threat, or insecurity in their work and life environments. This issue is critical; the citizens of a nation need security to perform their duties properly within the realms of business, social activities, and personal life. They should also be able to worship Allah with peace of mind and a collective spirit. To provide this essential need, it is necessary for the government to fulfill this public desire by exercising power and authority.
Social security is part of the government’s positive duties in ensuring overall safety, which is administered by the police force as the legal representative of the government in carrying out its responsibilities. The purpose of these actions is to create immunity (the absence of crime) and peace of mind (a sense of security) for community members during their daily social activities, in places of business and traffic, in private life, social interactions, and while maintaining religious and national values. This includes providing well-being and comfort and promoting individuals’ social status within the network of social interactions.
Another area of human security is social security. Individual and social security are closely related, with individual security serving as the foundation of social security. Social security creates conditions and situations in which all members of society have complete freedom to conduct their legitimate and legal activities and enjoy societal amenities equally, placing everyone on the same level.