ANALYSIS OF ORGANIZATIONAL STRESS AND ITS MITIGATION IN PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS MANAGING EUROPEAN FUNDS IN ROMANIA

This paper examines the dynamics of organizational stress within public institutions in Romania responsible for managing European funds. By analysing the interaction between specific performance requirements, the complexity of fund management processes, and their impact on employee well-being, the study reveals ways in which organizational stress can not only be identified but also effectively mitigated. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, the research highlights employees' perceptions of specific stress factors and their effects on workplace performance and satisfaction. Key sources of stress include high workloads, pressure from tight deadlines associated with EU-funded projects, and the complexity of regulations and administrative procedures. Additionally, the study identifies several effective mitigation strategies, including improving internal communication, developing professional training programs focused on stress management, and implementing flexible work mechanisms. In conclusion, the research underscores the need for a proactive approach to managing organizational stress in Romanian public institutions administering European funds. The included recommendations provide a foundation for developing more effective internal policies aimed at increasing employee resilience and optimizing organizational performance within the challenging context of managing European funds.