Romania’s government calls crisis meeting over violent protests against austerity
15. January, 2012
After several days of violent protests on the main roads of Bucharest, Romania’s government called an emergency meeting late Sunday to discuss the situation which shows no sign of abating.
More than 1,000 protesters who are angry about austerity measures clashed with police, hurling stones and firebombs. At least 13 people were injured.
The protests are the result of frustration against public wage cuts, slashed benefits, higher taxes, cronyism in state institutions and widespread corruption.
Protests began on January 12th in support of a health official who resigned because he opposed government health care reforms. Mr.Basescu, the President of Romania withdrew the health care bill Friday, but protests continued.
The protests continue in several Romanian cities, calling for early elections of a new president.
