Moldovan teachers threaten strikes over frozen pay increases
Promised salary increases for Moldovan educators have been frozen ahead of the new academic year. Government officials cite revenue shortfalls linked to global energy instability and international conflicts, prompting trade unions to organize nationwide protests.
Speaking on public radio, President Maia Sandu explained that unexpected external shocks derailed early budget projections. She stated that unexpected revenue deficits forced the administration to reevaluate its fiscal policy before releasing allocated funds.
Government cites budget deficit
While state expenditures are predictable, budget revenues remain highly vulnerable to external economic volatility. President Sandu noted that the cabinet will present revised solutions in the coming days to address the funding gap.
Government spokesperson Dumitru Ciorici confirmed that salary adjustments are tied to ongoing fiscal reforms. Executive decisions will be finalized following consultations across all state institutions.
Trade unions plan nationwide actions
The Education and Science Trade Union Federation announced a wave of protests starting August 19 outside the government headquarters. Union leaders warned that failure to implement pay raises by September 1 will trigger continuous nationwide strikes throughout the month.
If demands remain unmet by October 1, unions plan to declare a state of emergency in education. A mass rally and a boycott of official celebrations are scheduled for World Teachers' Day on October 5.
Interim financial measures proposed
Failed negotiations between union representatives and the Ministry of Education exacerbated internal tensions. Proposed compromises included temporary monthly stipends of €150–€200 (approx. 3,000–4,000 MDL) depending on teaching loads, but unions rejected the lack of permanent wage guarantees.
The suspended pay increases were initially promised under a previous fiscal reform framework. Authorities maintain that wage structures must be fully aligned with the newly revised national budget before implementation.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
