Over 400 NGOs contest a bill that requires associations to publicly disclose the identity of donors, arguing that the measure restricts the right to free association.

Over 400 non-governmental organizations, foundations, and civic groups have signed an open letter asking Parliament to reject a bill that requires associations to disclose the identity of donors.

These organizations, including the Foundation for the Development of Civil Society (FDSC), Expert Forum, and Save the Children, argue that the measure restricts the right to free association and imposes disproportionate penalties. The bill aims to amend Ordinance 26/2000 and is set to be debated in the Senate and then in the Chamber of Deputies.

NGOs argue that the state already has access to financial information and that the obligation to publish turns organizations into objects of public suspicion. They also raise issues of constitutionality and compatibility with European standards, calling for the rejection or withdrawal of the legislative initiative.