Pensions and salaries possibly frozen in 2027 as well, due to public debt

Pensions and salaries could remain frozen through 2027, amid Romania's rising public debt, which has exceeded the 60% threshold. Under current legislation, once this threshold is breached, the Government is no longer permitted to approve new expenditure related to incomes. More worryingly, the freeze could continue in the years that follow.

The Fiscal Council estimates that, by 2030, the country's public debt could climb as high as 70%.

The income situation is already difficult. The average pension stands at 2,782 RON, well below the minimum consumption basket value, calculated at 4,322 RON. The minimum pension is 1,281 RON.

Pensioners' representatives are calling for a pension increase of at least 15% and are threatening to take the Government to court if this does not happen. They warn that, without a rise, the number of people at risk of poverty will increase.

The decision on any potential income increase will fall to the incoming Government with full powers.