Students in Timișoara protest mandatory school uniforms

Students in Timișoara, Romania, are protesting against a legislative project that would mandate school uniforms. Demonstrators gathered in Piața Victoriei and near the Opera, with many wearing black to express their dissatisfaction.

Protesters argue that the measure was developed without student consultation and contest the claim that uniforms serve as an effective solution to bullying. Ana Vidoni, president of the Timiș County Students' Council, stated that bullying cannot be resolved through methods focused solely on appearance.

The bill has already been adopted by the Senate and is moving to the Chamber of Deputies for a final decision. Under the current Senate version, schools would determine uniform models and technical standards with parental agreement, and provisions for subsidies or free uniforms for low-income families are included. Following the protests, Senator Daniel Zamfir announced an amendment to ensure students are involved in deciding their school's dress code.