Bulgarian Nurses Protest for Better Conditions
On International Nurses Day, May 12, the Union of Bulgarian Medical Specialists (UBMS) will stage a protest in front of the Ministry of Health at noon, announced UBMS Chair Maya Ilieva during a round table on Bulgaria’s healthcare issues, CE Report quotes BTA
Ilieva stated that May 12 is “not a holiday” for medical professionals, as working conditions and pay remain inadequate. She called for a significant salary increase—at least 150% of the national average—to attract young professionals and bring back those working abroad.
“No nurse will study for four years to earn minimum wage,” she said, emphasizing the need for better working conditions. Ilieva also criticized excessive overtime and the employment of unqualified staff due to a shortage of nurses, warning that such practices often go unreported.
