Romania students protest mandatory school uniform bill

Students in Romania have staged protests, wearing black to demonstrate against a legislative proposal to reintroduce mandatory school uniforms. The bill, which was approved by the Romanian Senate, aims to implement uniform requirements in the pre-university cycle to reduce discrimination.

Critics, including student councils and various educators, argue that the measure is a superficial intervention that fails to address core educational issues such as teacher training, laboratory equipment, and school infrastructure. Students have expressed that the policy was developed without their consultation and that uniforms will not solve problems like bullying, which they claim is driven by other accessories like phones and bags.

Financial concerns have also emerged. While the bill includes provisions for subsidies or full coverage for low-income families, the specific funding sources and the exact costs for families above certain income thresholds remain unclear. Opponents argue that the mandate places an unnecessary financial burden on parents and that the law lacks clarity regarding how schools will manage non-compliance or the costs of replacing worn clothing.