In a heated debate in the Croatian parliament, opposition parties expressed concerns that the current minimum wage is insufficient to cover living costs, particularly for families. They argue that many workers struggle to make ends meet, while the ruling coalition defends the government’s record on wage increases.
Key Takeaways
- Opposition claims minimum wage does not cover living costs.
- Proposed increase from €840 to €970 gross deemed inadequate.
- Ruling coalition highlights significant wage increases under their government.
- Calls for a transparent formula to calculate minimum wage based on living costs.
Opposition’s Concerns
During a parliamentary session, Marin Miletić from the Bridge party emphasized that the proposed increase in the minimum wage from €840 to €970 gross is not enough for an average family of four. He stated, "Workers should be able to live decently on their wages, but that is not the case in Croatia today."
The opposition’s stance is that half of those earning the minimum wage are struggling financially, highlighting a disconnect between the government’s claims and the reality faced by many citizens.
Ruling Coalition’s Defense
In response, Majda Burić of the ruling HDZ party defended the government’s record, stating that the minimum wage has increased by 103% during Prime Minister Andrej Plenković’s tenure. She noted that with the proposed increase, the total rise would reach 134%. Burić remarked, "The increase in the minimum wage has never been higher and faster."
She contrasted the current situation with the previous SDP-led government, which she claimed only raised the minimum wage by €29. This assertion sparked backlash from opposition members, who accused her of being out of touch with the struggles of ordinary citizens.
Comparisons With Neighboring Countries
The debate also touched on comparisons with neighboring Slovenia, where the minimum wage is significantly higher. Ivica Ledenko from the Bridge party pointed out that Croatia ranks 15th in the eurozone for minimum wage, while Slovenia ranks 7th with a 50% higher wage. This comparison raises questions about the adequacy of Croatia’s minimum wage in the broader European context.
Inflation and Real Wages
Ivan Račan from the SDP party argued that any increases in the minimum wage have been negated by inflation, making it difficult for workers to maintain their standard of living. This sentiment was echoed by other opposition members who stressed the need for wages to keep pace with rising living costs.
Proposed Changes to Minimum Wage Calculation
Jelena Miloš from the We Can! party announced plans to demand a new approach to calculating the minimum wage. She proposed that it should be based on the real cost of living, using a clear and transparent formula. Additionally, she suggested that the minimum wage should be adjusted twice a year for inflation and should not include length of service.
Call for Action
Anka Mrak Taritaš from the GLAS party urged the ruling coalition to engage more with the realities faced by citizens. She called for the government to step out of their "ivory tower" and understand the challenges that young skilled workers face in Croatia, particularly in terms of wages and living conditions.
The ongoing debate highlights the critical issue of wage adequacy in Croatia, as both sides present their arguments in a bid to address the needs of the workforce and the economic realities of the country.
Sources
- Opposition: Minimum wage doesn’t cover living costs | Croatian Parliament, | Hrvatski sabor.
