LEGAL TRANSFORMATION IN ROMANIA TOWARD CHALLENGES AND DEVELOPMENTS IN THE POST-COMMUNIST ERA
Keywords:
European Union Law, Judicial Independence, Legal Reform, Post-Communist Transition, RomaniaAbstract
Romania has undergone significant legal transformations since the fall of communism in 1989, marked by the transition to democracy, the establishment of a market economy, and integration into the European Union in 2007. This article examines the evolution of Romania’s legal system, focusing on constitutional reforms, judicial independence, anti-corruption measures, and alignment with European legal standards. Using a qualitative approach supported by policy documents, court decisions, and international reports, the study reveals that Romania has made considerable progress in strengthening the rule of law and ensuring judicial transparency. However, persistent challenges remain, including political interference in the judiciary, limited public trust in legal institutions, and the slow pace of legal reforms in certain areas such as property rights and minority protections. The findings suggest that Romania’s legal development reflects both the achievements and struggles of post-communist states, highlighting the importance of continuous institutional reform, civic engagement, and international cooperation in consolidating democratic governance.
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