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Trade unions and social dialogue

This photo shows a demonstration with people holding up a sign that reads “We are better than this!”
Creator: StockSnap / Pixabay

Workers rights are at risk everywhere in the world. The right to establish or join a trade union, the right to collective bargaining and the freedom of speech and assembly are under increasing attacks in several countries. Romania is systematically violating those rights, according to the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC). This undermines the democracy at the workplace and deteriorates the working conditions and the economic situation of the workers.

A better balance between workers’ rights and economic freedom is crucial for achieving a socially just and inclusive society. More rights and influence for the workers enable a fairer distribution of income and wealth, strengthening social cohesion and reducing inequalities.

In our work, we promote a socio-economic model in which strong trade unions and effective social dialogue are a key instrument in building a society that works for the wellbeing of all. In the case of Romania, this involves a number of challenges, which we are trying to address through our activity, from structural internal reforms and modernization of the trade unions to a more worker- friendly legislative framework, which would create the conditions for a real social dialogue at company, sector and national level.

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The Cost of a Minimum Consumption Basket for a Decent Standard of Living in 2026

The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Romania and Syndex Romania have updated the cost of the minimum consumption basket required for a decent standard of living in Romania, in 2026, based on data provided by the National Institute of...

A person holding an orange shopping basket with fresh fruit and vegetables in a supermarket. The Syndex and Friedrich Ebert Stiftung logos appear at the bottom of the image.
Creator: Syda Productions / Canva
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Training program for young trade union organizers

From October 23 to 25, 2026, FES Romania, in collaboration with UNI-SEEOC—organized the third edition of the union organizing training program for young union leaders in Predeal.

Group of participants and trainers
Creator: FES Romania
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CALL FOR PARTICIPANTS: Training Program for Young Trade Union Organizers

Predeal, 23rd-25th of October 2026