Romania has taken steps in line with the Venice Commission’s recommendations in order to improve its justice system, according to the sixth Rule of Law Report published by the European Commission on Tuesday, July 8. Nevertheless, there is still room for improvement.
In the report, the EU executive notes that Romania has progressed when it comes to the implementation of the recommendations issued by the Venice Commission on the Justice Laws, which addressed concerns for the independence, quality, and efficiency of the justice system.
“The transparency of case law on disciplinary sanctions has improved, due to awareness-raising efforts. The Ministry of Justice showed openness to adapt its reform of IT systems in courts to ensure that judicial independence is guaranteed,” the report notes.
It also highlights that further efforts were made to ensure adequate human resources for the justice system, including new recruitments, despite budgetary restrictions.
Moreover, several initiatives have been taken to facilitate access to legal aid, and the length of proceedings has increased compared to previous years. This is complemented by advances in public consultations, despite several shortcomings.
Still on the plus side, the implementation of the 2021-2025 Anti-Corruption Strategy remains on track, and a new Strategy is under preparation, building on the ex-post evaluation of the current strategy. Authorities maintain a positive track record in combating corruption, including as regards high-level corruption cases.
“However, following rulings on the statute of limitations, national courts have closed many corruption cases and annulled convictions. There have been further steps taken concerning the system for investigating and prosecuting criminal offenses in the judiciary,” the report mentions.
The Commission is also aware that the Romanian Constitutional Court recently initiated a review of what it deemed to be a much too strict asset declaration system. Moreover, it says that there have been “no steps” taken to enhance the independent governance and editorial independence of public service media.”
“The financing of private media by political parties and state authorities has led to an increase in non-transparent political advertising. While the National Audiovisual Council would benefit from more human resources and a long-awaited new IT system, information on media ownership beyond the audiovisual sector is still insufficient,” the report notes.
Self-regulation is lacking, and issues with transparency and access to information remain. Even worse, threats and harassment of journalists remain an issue.
The Commission recommends that Romania take legislative steps to strengthen safeguards to ensure the independence of high-ranking prosecutors and for the organization and functioning of the judicial police. It also encourages Romania to continue to investigate corruption cases and introduce rules on lobbying for members of Parliament, including an effective asset declaration system.
Romania should also, according to the report, strengthen the rules and mechanisms to enhance the independent governance and editorial independence of public service media, address the frequent use of government emergency ordinances and ensure effective public consultations before the adoption of legislation, and forward the process for obtaining accreditation for the National Human Rights Institutions.
“The 2025 edition of the Rule of Law Report objectively notes Romania’s substantial progress in the areas of justice and the anti-corruption framework. During my term, I will maintain the pace of reforms initiated to preserve the stability and independence of the judiciary, as well as to ensure a high quality of justice for the benefit of citizens. In this regard, consultation with the judiciary and honest, open dialogue with the European Commission will remain constant benchmarks in the Rule of Law process,” said justice minister Radu Marinescu.
Introduced in 2020, the EU Rule of Law Report is a preventive tool designed to help address rule of law challenges in all Member States and spur necessary national reforms. Since 2022, the Rule of Law Report has included country-specific recommendations, the implementation of which is monitored annually by the European Commission.
(Photo source: Marian Vejcik | Dreamstime.com)
Leave a Reply