The European Commission's 2026 Rule of Law Report on Romania, published on 17 July 2026, finds that while some anti-corruption and transparency measures have been implemented, key judicial independence reforms remain blocked and the fight against high-level corruption is undermined by procedural rulings and stalled legislation. The report, part of the annual EU rule of law monitoring cycle, highlights persistent concerns over judicial independence, corruption, and media freedom.
The Commission notes that the High Court of Cassation and Justice suspended the government's committee to review the Justice Laws in March 2026, halting reflection on judicial governance. The government published the committee's report in July 2026, but no legislative steps were taken to strengthen safeguards for high-ranking prosecutors' independence or the judicial police's organisation. Some magistrates reported undue internal pressure, and judges were recused for intending to refer cases to European Courts. The occupancy rate of magistracy positions increased in 2025, but competitions were suspended due to budgetary restrictions until exceptions in April 2026.
On anti-corruption, the 2021-2025 National Anti-Corruption Strategy evaluation was finalised, and the 2026-2030 strategy is under preparation. However, lower courts continued to close corruption cases and annul convictions following High Court rulings on statutes of limitations. New legislation on revolving doors and a government Code of Ethics were adopted, and a legislative proposal on asset declarations is under discussion. An anti-SLAPP law is in preparation, but further journalist threats and harassment were reported.
The report notes that fewer government emergency ordinances were adopted in 2025 than in 2024, but legislative unpredictability remains a concern. No progress was made on accreditation of National Human Rights Institutions.
Romanian citizens and businesses face continued uncertainty in judicial processes, particularly in corruption cases, undermining legal predictability and investment climate. The European Commission and EU institutions may consider further monitoring or triggering of conditionality mechanisms under the Rule of Law Conditionality Regulation. Romanian judicial authorities and magistrates experience ongoing pressure and resource constraints, affecting their independence and efficiency. Journalists and civil society remain vulnerable to SLAPP lawsuits and harassment, with limited protective legislation in place.
The report will be discussed by the Council and the European Parliament, which may issue recommendations. The Commission is expected to continue monitoring Romania's progress under the Cooperation and Verification Mechanism and the broader rule of law framework.