Moldova teachers protest over delayed salary increases

Teachers and education workers in Moldova held a protest in Chișinău's Great National Assembly Square to demand the fulfillment of government commitments regarding salary increases scheduled for September 1, 2026. The protest, organized by the Federation of Education and Science Trade Unions (FSEȘ), highlights growing frustration over delayed wage hikes.

President Maia Sandu addressed the delay, citing unforeseen economic challenges such as the war in Iran and rising energy prices, which have impacted public finances and revenue collection. She noted that while the state intended to implement these increases, the inability to predict global instability has made budget management difficult. Sandu expressed hope that the government will present viable solutions soon.

During the demonstration, Education Minister Dan Perciun faced heckling from protesters. Prime Minister Vasile Tofan defended the minister, stating that Perciun has fought extensively for teachers' rights despite a difficult budgetary landscape. The government has indicated that solutions to address the salary demands are a priority and are being actively sought to ensure the stability of the education sector.