Forensic doctors throughout Romania begin a warning strike in June 2026, protesting against salary discrepancies and systemic neglect. The Romanian Forensic Doctors' Union announced a symbolic suspension of all probation activity, highlighting the critical issues faced by these professionals. From 10:00 to 12:00 on June 11, the national forensic network will suspend all current activities, except for handling major medico-judicial emergencies.

The strike highlight a crisis that has been building for years, with forensic doctors feeling marginalized by the government. They have appealed to the Parliament, Government, and Health Ministry to address errors in the salary ordinance, warning of further protest escalation if their demands are not met. The strike has significant implications for the Romanian judicial system, as no autopsies will be conducted, and evidence for murder cases will not be collected, allowing perpetrators to remain free.

Union members have identified three main causes for their revolt: the impact of OUG 7/2026, which has led to lower salaries compared to other medical specialties, the government's refusal to acknowledge the risks and responsibilities of forensic work, and the degradation of their professional status compared to magistrates or clinicians. The new salary law has resulted in an income drop and a potential exodus of specialists from the field.

Forensic institutes are operating on emergency budgets, struggling to meet the increased demand for rapid expertise. Criminal cases are stagnating due to a lack of necessary reagents and equipment, despite executive demands for precise results. The blocked forensic network means stalled investigations and trials, contributing to a sense of impunity.

The current protest is viewed as the first step in a potential domino effect, with prosecutors and courts heavily reliant on forensic expertise. Union members emphasize that citizens will suffer if the government continues to ignore their demands, as the integrity of the criminal justice system is at stake.