2 October 2025
Romania: FGS builds trust in its latest congress
BWI’s Romanian affiliate, the FGS, held its Congress on 25 September 2025 in Bucharest under the theme “We Build Trust.” President Gheorghe Bălăceanu, Vice-President Ramona Veleanu, and General Secretary Catalin Cimeci were re-elected for another mandate. The event welcomed many pan-European guests from Türkiye, Sweden, France, Finland, Moldova, Poland, Bulgaria, Italy, and Israel.
In his opening speech, Bălăceanu explained the significance of the congress theme, emphasising the values of respect, solidarity, and dignity. He warmly introduced a “surprise anthem” inspired by these values, which he announced will henceforth be sung at every union event. He went on to highlight the difficult realities in the construction sector, particularly the harsh living and working conditions faced by migrants, women, and young workers. His address concluded with a video showcasing the various actions and initiatives in which FGS has been actively involved.
Speaking at the event, BWI Regional Representative Geneviève Kalina said, “It’s no wonder that you have chosen this theme. Your union embodies these important values of solidarity that are increasingly disappearing today, and your country’s position at the crossroads of Central, Eastern, and Southeast Europe, with a strong pro-European anchor, certainly adds to that significance.”