The minimum wage in 2027 is expected to increase by an additional 40 or 50 euros, Social Minister Natalia Efremova stated in a media appearance. She clarified that the specific amount will be finalized by the Council of Ministers (CM) based on the state budget's capacity. Currently, the minimum wage stands at 620.20 euros.
Efremova expressed certainty that an increase will take place, as a higher upper limit has already been agreed upon by the social partners. The minister noted that this threshold was also set in accordance with the requirements of European legislation. She expressed satisfaction with the fact that the government managed to unite businesses and trade unions around a reasonable compromise.
It is planned for the minimum wage to be reviewed every three years to monitor its ratio against the cost of living. In the long term, these analyses will take into account indicators such as:
- the purchasing power of the population;
- the growth of the average wage;
- labor productivity.
Regarding holiday support, social legislation provides for approximately 450,000 to 500,000 low-income individuals to receive 50 euros each for Christmas. Minister Efremova recalled that through legislative changes, the range of people receiving support for Easter and Christmas has been significantly expanded.
The draft budget for 2027 includes the strict implementation of the "Swiss rule" for pension increases, which will come into effect from the middle of next year. It will take into account both inflation levels and the achieved average social security income.
The minister also addressed the topic of maternity, pointing out that options for greater incentives for mothers who choose to return to work earlier are being discussed. She emphasized that the current model of two years of paid maternity leave and a third unpaid year is an achievement that is not currently planned to be reduced.
In conclusion, Natalia Efremova announced that the distribution of targeted aid for families affected by the torrential rains in August has already begun.