The opposition SDSM party has strongly criticized the VMRO-DPMNE-led government for allegedly failing to pay cultural workers their agreed-upon salary increases before the Easter holiday. The party claims this constitutes a significant blow to the cultural sector.

SDSM asserts that cultural workers were expecting salary adjustments with their March paychecks, as stipulated in the 2021 Collective Agreement. However, they received no payments, leading to accusations of neglect and manipulation by the Ministry of Culture.

The party condemned statements suggesting cultural workers did not deserve the raise due to insufficient work or already high salaries, labeling them as offensive and discrediting. SDSM believes this reflects the government’s lack of concern for those responsible for preserving and promoting culture.

SDSM questions the government’s disregard for the Collective Agreement and its treatment of cultural workers. They called for the resignation of Minister Ljutkov if he is unable to fulfill his obligations.

SDSM emphasized that cultural workers are vital contributors to society’s values and traditions. The party insists that they deserve respectful treatment, not neglect and silence.