From the Sparkle of Figures to the Deceptive Mirror: How Well Does Economic Growth Reflect in Our Lives?

By Andreea Gudin

With almost the Finance Minister’s applause still echoing in our ears, Romanians receive news of a spectacular economic growth. However, when I take a look in my wallet, I feel a cognitive dissonance…

In a moment when the economy turns into a show of numbers, let’s look again through the magnifying glass, analysing this situation not just economically but also philosophically. For in reality, the government’s proposals seem to fall into the same basket with Hansel and Gretel’s breadcrumbs in the forest—traceless and with little chance of success. A kind of stepmother who is running for re-election and presents us with her dowry.

The Illusory Context of Economic Growth

Amid the fanfare created by the raise in public sector wages, the essential question remains: who truly bears the costs of this decision? So, where does the money come from, really? We cannot ignore the financial reality because, without clear answers, this seems far from a calculated measure, more like an improvisation to appease the dissatisfied. And this has immense repercussions. It’s a risky game with the budget, especially when the salary increase should be supported by a robust financial strategy. So, are we free-falling, or do you have a concrete plan? As being in an election year, the evasive concern for public sector employees seems like a strategy to secure votes.

“Zero Benefits and Hiring in a Coma”: Austerity in New Clothes?

In the shadow of official speeches presenting the abandonment of benefits and the suspension of hirings as necessary austerity measures, we hear only the slow creaking of three out of four wheels on the public sector’s carriage—additional burden on employees.

Abandoning salary benefits is presented as a necessary measure to cope with budget expenses. But behind this appearance of austerity hides a harsher reality: the sacrifices fall mainly on those who depend on these benefits to ensure a decent living. The policy of hiring suspension can be understood in the context of expense control, but not in the long term when the effects will reflect in the quality of public services, directly influenced by the impact on morale and performance caused by these changes. So maybe, some second thoughts to austerity?

Pillar II Pensions and Fuel Excise Taxes: Seducers of the Economy or Extra Electoral Impulses?

Postponing Pillar II pension contributions and gradually raising fuel excise taxes seem again like electoral boosts rather than rational measures. It directly impacts 8.1 million participants, with fuel taxes minimizing public opinion impact. So, once again, who bears this increase? Drivers or the entire transport-dependent economy? Understanding the impact on participants and the broader economy is crucial. Before implementation…

Artificial Intelligence: “Big Brother” Government or Our Protection?

Last but not least: in a governmental apparatus where everything is untraceable from one institution to another, marking one of the lowest ranks in transparency in the EU, the addition of artificial intelligence to this mess raises significant concerns. As the government’s push to use artificial intelligence to catch tax evaders becomes even more alarming in a system already marred by a lack of transparency. So we remain pondering what is the price we are paying for this efficiency.

In conclusion, it’s time to truly ask ourselves: How well does economic growth reflect in our lives?

Andreea Gudin

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