Romanian health workers begin Japanese strike over contested salary law

On 9 June 2026 the Federation Sanitas and affiliated unions in Romania launched a Japanese strike – a symbolic work‑stop where staff wear white armbands – across hospitals and social‑assistance units. Workers continue their duties, but use the strike to demand that the draft unified salary law adopt a reference salary of 4 325 lei (the minimum wage from 1 July 2026), apply equitable salary coefficients, keep the 15 % shift premium and the 100 % weekend/holiday premium, and include TESA personnel in the same pay annex.

Protesters warn that the proposed law could cut incomes by up to 60 % and affect pension calculations. Over 200 employees at the Bistrița County Hospital joined the action, and similar demonstrations occurred nationwide. Union leaders have stated, “Ne dorim soluții, nu conflicte!” and “Nu ne tăiaţi salariile!” and have warned that if their demands are ignored a general strike could be declared, potentially disrupting the entire health‑care system.

The strike reflects broad discontent among Romania’s roughly 120 000 health‑care and social‑assistance workers over the legislation, and negotiations with the government are ongoing.