Romania continues to rank among the countries with the lowest minimum wages in the European Union as of January 2025. According to data from Eurostat, ten EU member states had minimum wages below 1,000 euros per month, and Romania is included in this group. However, it is important to note that Romania does not hold the record for the lowest minimum wage in the EU.
In January 2025, the minimum wage in Romania was reported at 814 euros. Other countries with minimum wages below this threshold include Bulgaria at 551 euros, Hungary at 707 euros, Latvia at 740 euros, Slovakia at 816 euros, the Czech Republic at 826 euros, Estonia at 886 euros, Malta at 961 euros, Greece at 968 euros, and Croatia at 970 euros. These figures highlight the ongoing challenges faced by workers in these nations, as they struggle to meet basic living expenses on such low wages.
In contrast, six EU countries had minimum wages that ranged between 1,000 and 1,500 euros per month during the same period. These countries are Cyprus, with a minimum wage of 1,000 euros; Portugal at 1,015 euros; Lithuania at 1,038 euros; Poland at 1,091 euros; Slovenia at 1,278 euros; and Spain at 1,381 euros. Meanwhile, six other member states reported minimum wages exceeding 1,500 euros per month, including France at 1,802 euros, Belgium at 2,070 euros, Germany at 2,161 euros, the Netherlands at 2,193 euros, Ireland at 2,282 euros, and Luxembourg at a staggering 2,638 euros.
Interestingly, Denmark, Italy, Austria, Finland, and Sweden do not have national minimum wages, which excludes them from these statistics. The disparity in wages across the EU is significant, with the highest minimum wage being 4.8 times that of the lowest. This stark contrast raises questions about the economic conditions and labor rights within the EU.
While these figures paint a concerning picture, it is also crucial to consider the purchasing power of these wages. Eurostat indicates that disparities in minimum wages become less pronounced when accounting for differences in price levels across countries. When adjusted for purchasing power parity (PPP), minimum wages in countries with lower price levels appear relatively higher compared to those in countries with higher price levels. This adjustment is vital for understanding the real value of wages and the economic situations in different EU nations.
In addition to the challenges of low minimum wages, Romania faces significant hurdles in digital literacy. Recent statistics reveal that only 28% of Romanians aged 16 to 74 possess basic digital skills. This lack of digital proficiency is alarming, especially in an increasingly digitalized economy where many job opportunities require such skills. A study conducted by DeLucru.ro estimated that approximately 4 million individuals in Romania are economically inactive, meaning they do not have a job and are not actively seeking employment. Of these, more than 2 million would like to work but lack the knowledge to navigate a digital job market.
The digital divide poses a significant barrier to employment for many Romanians. Traditional recruitment platforms often necessitate basic digital skills, leaving a large portion of the workforce at a disadvantage. In response to this pressing issue, DeLucru.ro has proposed tailored solutions aimed at helping this neglected segment of the population gain the necessary skills to thrive in a digital economy.
Romania's ongoing struggle with low minimum wages and digital literacy highlights the need for comprehensive reforms. As the country continues to grapple with these issues, it is essential for policymakers to prioritize initiatives that enhance both wage levels and digital education. Addressing these challenges is crucial not only for improving the quality of life for Romanian citizens but also for ensuring the country's competitiveness in the broader European market.
Overall, the situation in Romania serves as a reminder of the broader economic inequalities that persist within the EU. As discussions around wage policies and digital education continue, the focus must remain on fostering an environment that supports equitable growth and empowers all citizens to participate fully in the economy.
