The government’s distribution of the thirteenth salary to around 85,000 public sector employees is generating controversy, viewed as discriminatory against workers in the private sector. A Gazeta Express report on March 31, 2026, at 7:58 AM details that this initiative will cost the state budget approximately 75 million euros. This decision raises concerns beyond the immediate financial impact.
Blendi Hasaj, Director of the GAP Institute, argues that a more equitable approach would be to apply similar measures to all low-wage workers across the economy. He believes this would address the significant disparity in compensation. Hasaj highlights recent research within Kosovo, indicating that public sector employees receive roughly 31 percent higher hourly wages compared to their counterparts in the private sector.
The distribution of the thirteenth salary further exacerbates this imbalance, creating a perceived disadvantage for those employed in the private sector. Ultimately, the debate centers on fairness and equal treatment across the different economic sectors, with calls for a broader intervention to address wage discrepancies.
Topics: #sector #thirteenth #salary
The provision of a thirteenth wage to approximately 85,000 public sector staff is seen as unfair treatment compared to private sector employees.