Study Shows Preference for Increased Public Funding in Healthcare and Education Among Romanians
In a comprehensive study conducted by Ipsos for the ING Group in May-June 2025, the main concerns about Romania's economy, labor market, and technology were unveiled.
Economic Concerns
More than half of Romanians (58%) are worried about the country's economic situation. Inflation remains a central concern for about 20% of respondents, reflecting the economic uncertainty shaped by current geopolitical tensions.
Labor Market Concerns
Nearly half of Romanians (47%) express increased worries related to the labor market. Additionally, 50% feel that their personal financial situation is becoming more important in the current times, indicating shifting perceptions and priorities regarding employment and economic stability.
Consumer Behavior and Technology-Related Concerns
Romanians, like other Europeans, pay closer attention to the origin of the products they buy. Specifically, 52% prefer Romanian-made products even if these are more expensive, and 42% favor products from the European Union over those from outside it. This reflects a greater focus on local and EU supply sources, potentially influenced by geopolitical and economic trends.
Government Investment Priorities
Romanians want increased government spending in areas vital for long-term development—particularly health (79%), education and research (75%), and infrastructure (69%). Although the survey does not explicitly state technology as a standalone concern, the emphasis on education, research, and infrastructure investment implies a desire to strengthen innovation and technological capacity in the future.
The survey also explored attitudes towards defense spending and artificial intelligence (AI). Approximately half of Romanians (52%) consider defense investments in military companies sustainable and ethical in the current uncertain geopolitical context. However, more than half (58%) are concerned about the country's economic situation, and only 14% support increasing taxes for defense expenditures.
Regarding AI, more than half of Romanians (48%) expect AI to change their professional activity to some extent in the next 5 years. Almost half (45%) fear that AI will lead to more jobs lost than created, while 62% support strict regulation of AI.
In summary, the survey highlights that economic stability, inflation, and labor market concerns dominate public sentiment in Romania, alongside a growing preference for local and EU products and a demand for more government investment in sectors that support development and innovation. The results also suggest a cautious approach towards AI, with a call for regulation to protect jobs and the economy.
In the realm of education and self-development, Romanians expressed a strong desire for increased government spending, with 75% prioritizing investment in education and research. This implies a focus on fostering innovation and technological capacity in the future.
When it comes to health-and-wellness, concerns about economic stability, inflation, and the labor market might impact overall well-being, as nearly half of Romanians (47%) have increased worries related to employment and economic stability. Additionally, 50% feel that their personal financial situation is becoming more important in the current times, which could potentially lead to greater stress and anxiety regarding health and wellness.
