During the COVID-19 pandemic, workers at a Greencore sandwich factory in Northamptonshire, UK, faced a crisis when over 200 staff contracted the virus, leading to a shutdown. The workers, many of whom were Romanian, struggled with the low statutory sick pay provided by the government, which was insufficient to cover their living expenses. Union representatives, including Nicolae Macari from Moldova, Gelu Dumitru Manole from Bucharest, and Florentina Pasisnic from Galați, fought for fair pay and better conditions. Despite the company's reluctance to pay full salaries during isolation, the union's efforts led to some concessions, such as early bonuses and 80% salary payments. The article highlights the challenges faced by migrant workers and the importance of unions in advocating for labor rights.

Romania has been experiencing its largest protests since the fall of communism, as Prime Minister Sorin Grindeanu was pressured to repeal a decree that would have protected corrupt politicians from prosecution. Despite the decree's withdrawal, thousands continue to protest, demanding further government resignations and stronger justice systems. The protests were sparked by a secret law that would have decriminalized official misconduct under $48,000. High-profile politicians, including Liviu Dragnea, stood to benefit from this law. The National Anti-Corruption Directorate has been successful in prosecuting officials, including former Prime Minister Adrian Nastase. Protesters remain on the streets to signal their dissatisfaction and to foster a newfound solidarity among Romanians.

Survivors of Romanian orphanages, including Daniel Rucareanu, are seeking justice for the abuse they suffered under the communist regime. An estimated 500,000 children endured hunger, cold, beatings, and sexual abuse in state-run orphanages before the end of the Cold War. The group Federeii is pushing for an official acknowledgment and apology from Romanian authorities. Despite reforms and EU integration, issues persist with the care of orphans and disabled children. Survivors like Rucareanu, now an education expert in the Romanian government, continue to deal with the psychological scars and advocate for those still affected by the system.

Daniel Rucareanu, a former Romanian orphan, recalls the violence and humiliation experienced in communist Romanian orphanages, which he describes as 'slaughterhouses of souls.' An estimated 500,000 children suffered hunger, cold, beatings, and sexual abuse in these institutions before the end of the Cold War. The Federeii association, created by former orphans, is pushing for an official acknowledgment and apology from Romanian authorities. Despite the fall of communism in 1989 and subsequent reforms, including Romania's EU accession commitments, the legacy of these orphanages persists, with issues such as neglect, abuse, and inadequate preparation for real life still affecting children in state care. The National Authority for Child’s Rights Protection and Adoption admits challenges in improving the system, while Federeii members plan to erect a temporary memorial for the children who died in state care.

The article discusses the paradoxical situation in Romania where local leaders, such as Mayor Nicolae Matei of Navodari, gain popularity and political capital despite being investigated or convicted for corruption. Matei, who has been charged with bribery, remains a beloved figure in his town, reflecting a broader trend where mayors across Romania have been resurrected at the ballot box after facing legal troubles. The article explores the cultural and historical reasons for this phenomenon, including a deep-seated distrust of central institutions and a preference for local, personal connections. Despite the success of Romania's anti-corruption prosecutors, backed by the EU, in securing convictions, these efforts have not necessarily translated into cleaner politics. The article is part of the Balkan Fellowship for Journalistic Excellence and highlights the work of the DNA, Romania's anti-corruption agency, and the ongoing challenges in the fight against corruption.