Hundreds Injured in Romania’s Anti-Government Protest

More than 430 people have been injured during an anti-government rally in the Romanian capital of Bucharest.

Photo credit: Grigore Popescu / AGERPRES FOTO
Tens of thousands of people rallied in front of government headquarters in Bucharest on August 10 to protest corruption, low wages and attempts to weaken the country’s judiciary system by the ruling Social Democrats. Protests also took place across other cities.

Photo credit: Grigore Popescu / AGERPRES FOTO

According to Radio Romania International, clashes broke out between demonstrators and police in the capital, leaving hundreds of people injured and 45 hospitalized.

READ MORE: Why Are 300,000 Romanians Protesting Against Their Government?

Footage circulating on social media shows police beating a number of peaceful protesters.

The protests were organized by groups of Romanian expats. They were among a number of anti-government demonstrations held in Romania this year.

Photo credit: Grigore Popescu / AGERPRES FOTO

In January, tens of thousands of people took to the streets of Bucharest to protest changes to the justice system and the weakening of anti-corruption legislation. The following month, thousands took part in demonstrations, demanding the resignation of Romania's Justice Minister Tudorel Toader.

READ MORE: Romania Protests Corrupt Officials

Romania is considered one of the most corrupt countries in the European Union.

/By Natalie Vikhrov