Page 45 - Bulletin, Vol.80 No.1, May 2021

to take all opinions into account to improve the quality. We publish information on
pensions, taxation, health insurance, and also some articles of a less serious
nature. The Bulletin can be issued thanks to the assistance of a number of
volunteers for translations, research and electronic layout. Michèle Vieille has joined
the Bulletin’s editorial team, but we are still looking for volunteers to help improve
our texts in both French and English. Douglas Helland ensures all the tasks of
layout and formatting to make the Bulletin as attractive as possible.

37. We also send out e-mail information on local cultural activities by NEWSLETTER or
FLASH to encourage our members to take part in the social life of the “Léman
region”. Several NEWSLETTERS have given information on French taxation and
more particularly deduction at source in 2019 which raises many questions due to
its complexity and frequent changes.

v. Providing support to retirees who are no longer able to
manage some administrative formalities or with financial
difficulties

38. We have continued to provide ad hoc assistance to retirees who have encountered
difficulties and have created and set up a new enhanced website
https://afics.unog.ch/AAFI-AFICS Guide des Services sociaux.pdf

39. The Committee has put together for our members a wealth of information
concerning the medico-social services available in the Greater Geneva region. If
necessary, the Committee may seek expert professional help on social welfare but
this has not been needed in 2019.

40. AFICS is also fortunate to have the unwavering assistance of France Henry who
helps retirees with the preparation and submission of complex reimbursement
claims to UNSMIS. France spends at least one day a week unravelling bills,
explaining the rules and follow-up.

41. The Rules of the AFICS Solidarity Fund state that the purpose of the Fund is to
assist former international staff members faced with unexpected financial difficulties
that cannot be met by taking a loan or other financial means.

42. Some requests reveal a lack of wisdom of retirees who have squandered their lump
sum, have no savings and have not made a budget. A longer life span often means
increased medical expenses.

AAFI-AFICS BULLETIN, Vol. 80 No. 1, 2021-05 43