Romanian gov’t undecided on ‘no jab, no job’ green pass for workplace

Inquam Photos / George Calin

Romania’s governing coalition is  split on plans to introduce a mandatory green pass for workers.

Romanian President Klaus Iohannis met leaders of the coalition which groups the center-left Social Democratic Party and the center-right Liberals on Wednesday to discuss the way forward.

The president is reportedly opposed on introducing a drastic measure that could generate more discontent. The government fears more protests over the green pass could lead to social tensions.

Romanians are already facing inflation fueled by energy price hikes and the situation between  Russia and Ukraine adds to the uncertainty.

Romania has one of the lowest vaccination rates in the EU, with only 40% of the population of about 19 million fully immunized.

Liberal Party leader Florin Citu on Thursday said the green pass  “should have two conditions: to keep the economy open and to encourage vaccination.”

On Tuesday, dozens tried to storm the Parliament in protest at a debate on introducing the Covid pass in the workplace. The protest was organized by the nationalist Alliance for the Union of Romanians.

Police handed out 117 fines worth  about 200,000 lei (40,000 euros) on Wednesday to protesters who forced their way into Parliament grounds and vandalized cars with spray paint.

Photo of swastika being sprayed on EU flag at Romania’s Parliament draws calls for extremist party  to be outlawed

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