The Federation of Forestry Unions 'Silva' has decided to organize a protest rally on March 19 in Victoriei Square, Bucharest. This action comes in response to a number of grievances related to recent government decisions, which directly impact directly on the incomes and rights of foresters. The protest aims to draw the attention of both the authorities and public opinion to the difficulties faced by Romanian forestry workers.
The government has adopted Emergency Ordinance no. 4/2025, which stipulates a 25% cut in foresters' incomes, a measure that has sparked discontent among them. The 'Silva' federation considers that this financial cut is a direct attack on the working conditions of foresters and jeopardizes their economic stability. In addition, the unions denounce a smear campaign initiated by the current Minister for the Environment, Water and Forests, which is damaging the image and morale of forestry staff.
The Government has announced amendments to GEO 59/2000, which brings significant changes to the status of forestry personnel. These changes include the elimination of some rights considered essential for foresters. These include the right to receive 6 cubic meters of seasoned firewood per year and a retirement bonus calculated at a minimum of five times the gross salary for the last month of work. These benefits have been legally established before and were considered compensatory for the demanding nature of foresters' work.
The 'Silva' federation argues that these legislative measures are harmful, directly affecting the motivation and safety of forestry staff. The abolished rights represented not only economic support, but also a recognition of the effort and risks that forestry workers take on a daily basis. Without them, many foresters could face significant financial challenges, further affecting the smooth running of forestry activities.
These measures come in a context where forestry staff already face various obstacles, such as underfunding for forest protection and lack of investment in the necessary equipment that is essential for sustainable monitoring and management of forest resources.
The March 19 protest is therefore an attempt to raise awareness among the government and the general public of the profound impact these decisions have on foresters and, implicitly, on Romanian forests. The 'Silva' Federation hopes that through this action, a constructive dialog with the authorities can be initiated in order to find solutions that will continue to support the sustainable future of the forest sector. They urge the government to reconsider the ordinances and to work closely with foresters to find alternative measures that protect both the interests of employees and the environment.
