Romania Relies on the EU’s Solidarity Budget to Overcome the Pandemic

Abstract

Romania is one of the most Euro-supportive nations, albeit a little less so of late, with trust in the EU ranging between 51% (Eurobarometer 2017) and 43% (Eurobarometer 2020) against an EU average of 35%. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has reaffirmed how important the EU is at times when enhanced cooperation and solidarity are needed. Some have experienced European solidarity directly. Thousands of employees left without jobs overnight benefited from technical unemployment, a scheme promoted by the Romanian Government, but, following Brussels’ green light, with support also being given by way of funds from the current multiannual financial framework. Emergency help was provided to fight the coronavirus, with medical teams and medical supplies being provided to Romania, while dozens of patients were transferred to other EU countries as Romanian hospitals were overwhelmed. Romania has also provided support to other EU and non EU countries to tackle the rising number of COVID-19 cases, especially to Republic of Moldova. Solidarity, in this sense, has worked both ways.