Romania's Bloated Public Sector: AUR Candidate Calls for Reform

Romania's State Employee Surge and AUR's Call for Reform Romania is facing a significant increase in state employees, a trend that has sparked debate about efficiency and resource allocation. The number of public sector workers has risen from 800,000 in 2000 to 1,315,000 today, according to recent statements by George Simion, the AUR presidential candidate. This growth has coincided with persistent shortages in crucial sectors like education and healthcare, leading to concerns about the quality of public services. Simion, in an interview with Realitatea Plus, argued that this expansion is largely due to cronyism and patronage. "Sinecurile, pilele, după un proces transparent de evaluare, trebuie să lase locul oamenilor capabili, tinerilor," he stated, calling for a transparent evaluation process to replace unqualified individuals with competent professionals, especially young people. The issue extends beyond simple staffing numbers. Simion highlighted the critical need for more teachers and medical personnel, noting a decline in respect for uniformed services like the military and police. He also stressed the urgent need to combat drug trafficking, particularly near schools and universities, stating, "Poliția va avea mână liberă să destructureze rețelele de droguri de mare risc și, în primul rând, trebuie să înceapă din zona școlilor, liceelor, universităților, pentru că tineretul nostru este intoxicat cu substanțe care aduc moartea." This reflects a growing concern about the well-being of Romania's youth. Simion's comments underscore the complex challenges facing Romania's public sector. Addressing these issues requires a multi-faceted approach that balances the need for efficient public services with the concerns of citizens about employment and security.