International press about the protests in Romania

Reuters, BBC, CNN, AP and Euronews are some of the news agencies that are reporting extensively on the demonstrations in Romania, noting that these are some of the largest protests organized since President Traian Băsescu has come to power.

The international press is reporting extensively on the demonstrations in Romania, describing them as some of the largest protests ever organised since President Traian Băsescu has come to power, amid the general state of discontent due to the austerity policies.

BBC reported that the police used tear gas during protests, and several people were injured, as well policemen and protesters!

The manifestations began in solidarity with with Raed Arafat, gradually expanding because of the general dissatisfaction with the policies of the government in Bucharest, according to BBC correspondent Nick Thorpe in Eastern Europe.

"The protests broke out on Thursday after the Raed Arafat, an opponent of health reforms proposed by the government, resigned.

Facing public pressure, Băsescu decided to scrap the reforms Friday, saying he made the decision after realizing that a majority of those in the medical system opposed the change", CNN comments.

Euronews reports that people took to the streets in several cities for the third consecutive day against austerity measures and the health system project.

According to the Associated Press, the protests are the result of ‘frustration over public-sector wage cuts, reduced benefits, higher taxes, cronyism in state institutions and widespread corruption’ in Romania.

"The protests have continued in several cities in Romania, on Sunday, reflecting the widespread anger that people feel against the austerity measures and an unpopular government", the AP writes.

Traian Băsescu was regarded as "a man of the people" when he came to power in 2004.

AP Correspondent Allison Mutler in Bucharest made reference to the President’s broadcast shopping sessions or the scenes in which he danced with his wife at parties.

Translated by: Denisse-Meda Bucura
MA Student, MTTLC, Bucharest University