Finally, something is happening with the minimum wage in Serbia! Zoran Mihajlović, president of the Independent Trade Unions of Serbia, announced that today a session of the Social-Economic Council (SESA) will be held to discuss raising the minimum wage. The unions are demanding negotiations to start on increasing wages across the country, not just the minimum wage. The Serbian government plans to raise the minimum wage in two steps: about 20 euros from October 1st, and another 20 euros in January next year. This means the minimum wage could increase by around 40 euros in total, a significant jump for many workers.
But is this really good news or just another political game? Mihajlović emphasized that economic indicators must show that the increase is justified. This means negotiations will be based on numbers, not just the wishes of unions or the government. Still, the question remains – will employers accept this increase, or are we facing another round of layoffs and company closures?
Negotiations started earlier than in previous years, which might be a sign that the situation is being taken seriously. After today’s SESA session, another meeting of the negotiating team and working group on implementing the minimum wage is expected. The final decision on the new minimum wage amount should be made soon.
This is a chance to finally recognize workers’ efforts and provide them with a decent living. But, as always, the real battle is just beginning. Will a minimum wage of around 40,000 dinars be enough to cover basic needs, or will it be just a drop in the ocean of problems? And will employers be able to withstand this blow, or will the economy collapse under the pressure?
Either way, it’s time for everyone to pay attention and not play dumb. If you have an opinion on the minimum wage, feel free to share it – maybe your idea will change the game!
