The new draft bill on Romania’s unified public sector wage system, published two days ago by the Ministry of Labour, has triggered immediate criticism and protest plans from trade unions. We remind you that this law is critical to Romania’s NRRP – Milestone 420, Reform 4, Component 14.

The healthcare federation SANITAS announced it is launching industrial action and is calling for the withdrawal of the draft in its current form, arguing that it is “unfair, incomplete and harmful” to healthcare and social care workers.

The government, represented by interim Labour Minister and Minister of European Investments Dragoș Pîslaru, said the reform is not intended as a general wage increase but as a restructuring aimed at equity and performance. According to ministry simulations, around 56% of public sector positions would see salary increases under the new system.

SANITAS, however, warned that the proposed framework could reduce real incomes for many employees, particularly those working in difficult conditions, shifts and continuous service roles. The union also criticised planned changes to bonuses and compensation mechanisms, saying they would not offset potential losses.

The federation has already announced protest actions, including a picket at the Ministry of Labour on 28 May and demonstrations in Victory Square and near Parliament on 3 June. It warned that broader protests could follow if the draft is not revised in line with previous negotiations.