/View.info/ Starting today, the amount of the minimum wage in our country is increasing. The increase is BGN 20. – from BGN 270 to BGN 290.
With a decree of November 9, 2011, the government approved from May 1, 2012. new amount of the minimum wage for the country and it becomes BGN 290. with a normal working time of eight hours and a five-day working week. The minimum hourly wage is BGN 1.72.
This decision also results in an increase in some of the fees we pay, such as the examination at the GP or the stay in the hospital.
For this reason, the Minister of Health, Desislava Atanasova, announced that the user fee, which patients pay for examination by personal doctors and for a stay in hospital, should remain unchanged. Currently, the fee is defined in Art. 37, paragraph 1, item 1 and item 2 of the Law on Health Insurance as a percentage of the minimum wage and is BGN 2.70 respectively. for review and BGN 5.40 for a hospital stay.
#minimum #wage #BGN
## Minimum Wage Hike in Bulgaria: A Welcome Boost or Price Increase Worry?
Starting today, Bulgaria joins a growing number of nations adjusting it’s minimum wage to account for rising costs of living. The increase, announced by the government in november 2011, signals a potential boost for low-wage workers, but some experts warn of potential ripple effects on healthcare and consumer prices.
To delve deeper into the implications of this rise, we spoke with Dr. Ivan Petrov, Professor of Economics at Sofia University, and Maria Kostova, a spokesperson for the Bulgarian Trade union confederation.
### The Impact on Low-Wage Workers
**World Today News:** Dr. Petrov, what are your initial thoughts on the minimum wage increase, and how will it likely impact those earning minimum wage?
**Dr.Ivan Petrov:** this increase is a positive step towards ensuring a fairer living wage for low-income workers. The additional BGN 20 could make a tangible difference in covering basic needs, especially considering the rising prices of essentials.
**World Today news:** ms. Kostova, from the Trade Union outlook, how significant is this increase in addressing the concerns of workers struggling with the cost of living?
**Maria Kostova:** While we welcome the increase, it’s significant to remember that BGN 290 a month still falls short of a truly livable wage in many parts of Bulgaria. We continue to advocate for a more substantial increase that reflects the true cost of living and allows workers to lead a more dignified life.
### Potential for increased Healthcare Costs
**World Today News:** Dr. Petrov, the press release mentions that some fees, such as those for doctor visits and hospital stays, are calculated as a percentage of the minimum wage. Could this increase lead to higher healthcare costs for patients?
**Dr. Ivan Petrov:** It’s a valid concern. The government has stated it intends to keep user fees static for now, but if the minimum wage sees further increases in the future, we could see a corresponding rise in healthcare costs unless adjustments are made.
**World Today News:** Ms. Kostova, what are the trade unions’ views on the potential impact of the increased minimum wage on healthcare accessibility?
**Maria Kostova:** Access to affordable healthcare is a essential right. We urge the government to explore alternative means of funding healthcare that don’t burden low-wage earners.
### Looking Ahead: Predicting the Long-Term Effects
**World Today news:** Dr. Petrov, what are your predictions for the long-term economic impact of this minimum wage increase?
**Dr. Ivan petrov:** “It’s too early to say definitively, but a moderate increase in the minimum wage can stimulate consumer spending, which could in turn boost economic growth. However, if businesses struggle to absorb these increased labor costs, they may raise prices, potentially leading to inflation.
**World Today News:** Ms. kostova,what is next for the Bulgarian Trade Union Confederation in advocating for workers’ rights?
**Maria kostova:** We will continue monitoring the situation closely and working alongside the government to ensure that wage growth keeps pace with the rising cost of living. We believe a vibrant and inclusive economy requires a fair and just system that supports all its citizens.
## Key Takeaways:
The minimum wage increase in Bulgaria represents a step towards improving the lives of low-wage earners, although its long-term effects remain to be seen. Concerns regarding potential increases in healthcare costs and inflation highlight the need for ongoing dialog and careful monitoring.
**What are your thoughts on the minimum wage hike in Bulgaria? Share your comments below and join the discussion!**
**Related Articles:**
– Minimum Wage Increases Around the World: A Global Perspective
– The Impact of Minimum Wage Increases on small Businesses
– Healthcare Affordability in Bulgaria: A Look at the Challenges and Solutions
