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Bucharest – The country visit was opened by the meeting of European Commission representatives, via videoconference, with the Minister of Justice Radu Marinescu, given that the Ministry of Justice acts as the coordinator of this annual exercise at the national level.
Radu Marinescu presented the progress made by Romania regarding the relevant aspects concerning the justice system, the anti-corruption framework, and the balance of powers in the state. He particularly emphasized the complexity and extensive nature of the reforms carried out by Romania in recent years, with indisputable, positive, and lasting results, especially with regard to justice reform and efforts to combat corruption.
The Romanian minister appreciated the role and usefulness of country visits regarding the rule of law, which allow for an “on the ground” snapshot of relevant developments concerning the rule of law from all EU member states.
“Compliance with the principles of the rule of law is an essential aspect for EU member states, being a sine qua non condition for the correct and efficient functioning of member states, as well as of the European Union. Member states face various challenges regarding the rule of law, and the Commission’s reports represent a valuable prevention tool,” declared Radu Marinescu, at the end of the meeting with the European Commission representatives, quoted in a press release.
The rule of law is a fundamental value of the EU, which includes a transparent, accountable, democratic, and pluralistic legislative process, effective judicial protection – including access to justice – by independent and impartial courts, and the separation of powers. The rule of law requires that any person benefits from equal protection under the law and prevents the arbitrary use of power by governments.
The European mechanism regarding the rule of law is a preventive tool, which aims to promote the rule of law and prevent the emergence or aggravation of problems. It consists of an annual dialogue involving the Commission, Council, and European Parliament, alongside member states, national parliaments, civil society, and other stakeholders in the field of the rule of law.
The annual rule of law report monitors significant developments, both positive and negative, that impact the rule of law in member countries. The report covers four pillars: the judicial system, the anti-corruption framework, media pluralism, and other institutional aspects related to the system of checks and balances. (10.3.2025)