Is Hungary’s Left Resisting Increases in Teachers’ Salaries?
Hungary’s Left-Wing Accused of Blocking EU Funds for Teacher Salary Increase
The Hungarian left wing has been accused of blocking EU funds intended for teacher salary increases. Bence Rétvári, parliamentary state secretary of the interior ministry, has criticized Hungary’s political opposition for demanding higher teacher wages while working to prevent the necessary EU funds from arriving in the country. Rétvári has called the opposition’s attitude “duplicitous” and questioned whether Klára Dobrev, the head of the Democratic Coalition shadow government, had informed teacher unions of her actions to block EU funds.
Dobrev has been meeting with teacher unions since August 2021, when their demands were incorporated into the Democratic Coalition’s election campaign. However, Rétvári has claimed that Dobrev was also working in Brussels to prevent EU monies from covering the proposed wage increases.
Teacher salaries have been a contentious issue in Hungary, with many educators feeling underpaid and undervalued. The opposition has long called for increased wages and better working conditions for teachers, arguing that these are vital for maintaining the country’s education system. Meanwhile, the ruling Fidesz party has claimed that it is committed to supporting teachers and has promised to increase their wages.
The accusations made by Rétvári highlight the ongoing tensions between Hungary’s political factions, particularly over issues related to education and the allocation of EU funds. The debate over teacher salaries is likely to continue, with both sides attempting to sway public opinion in their favor.
