The miners’ union at the public enterprise Trepça has requested that the management of the enterprise take concrete steps to increase wages and improve working conditions, emphasizing that the work and sacrifices of miners are not being fairly recognized.

In a request addressed to management and the public, the union leadership emphasizes that miners have endured for years without requesting wage increases, despite significant rises in prices and inflation.

“Every day we feel the impact of rising prices, increasing inflation, and economic difficulties. We, the miners, have worked for many years with patience and solidarity for our enterprise, hoping that the situation would improve, and we have refrained from requesting wage increases, even though other sectors have experienced adjustments and improvements. Now that the government has announced salary increases for public sector workers and promised a 13th salary, it is both normal and fair that the management of our enterprise takes concrete steps to raise miners’ wages,” states the reaction of the Independent Miners’ Union at Trepça.

According to the union, during the past year there has been a noticeable increase in production, which is a direct result of the workers’ dedication.

“This success would not have happened without the commitment of the miners. Therefore, we demand that our work be rewarded with wage increases, just like in other public and private sectors,” the statement continues.

The miners warn that they risk their lives and health every day in difficult working conditions, often without sufficient protective equipment and without a specific law to safeguard them. They are calling on management to take immediate measures to ensure the well-being of the workers.

“Today is the time for concrete decisions that guarantee respect and dignity for miners,” concludes the union’s statement.

With the draft budget for 2026, the current government has also planned for a 13th salary for public sector employees, increases in pensions, and child allowances.