Remuneration

The Bulgarian National Assembly has unanimously voted in favor of a 30% salary increase for military personnel. The decision, backed by a resounding 195 votes, marks a significant milestone in prioritizing the welfare of the armed forces.

There is a glaring contradiction in the way the country's political forces treat public administration: On the one hand, they denounce the appointment of inactive party officials to positions in the public administration. On the other, they seek to "criminalize" any remuneration to officials in the broader public sector deemed to be above average.

The group was large and lively. They had booked a private table in a room reserved for elite customers. The wine flowed, the plates of mezedes went back and forth. At the request of the merry customers, the radio had been tuned to a Greek folk station. "You're the best, to your health!" they cried. By the eighth carafe of wine, the bill was requested. It had reached 500 euros.

Europe is at a critical tipping point and, depending on how much political will is mustered in Brussels and by member states, it could go either way.

This year is a determining year for the Union as it faces crisis within its borders and from outside. Running through Europe is a mounting fear of more terrorist attacks.

Parliamentary Speaker Nikos Voutsis is studying a plan that would result in a 10% reduction to the main wages of Greek lawmakers. The new salary index will be incorporated into the Parliamentary budget currently being drafted. Once included in the budget,  the cuts will be implemented from January 2016.