The Association of the Forum of Judges in Romania demands real reforms in justice, accusing the regression of the judicial system after the adoption of the new laws in 2022.

The Association of Judges Forum of Romania (AFJR) declared that the adoption of the new justice laws in 2022 has led to a significant regression of the judicial system. In a statement, the association urged the authorities not to ignore the warning signals and to implement real reforms, emphasizing the necessity of respecting the principles of independence and meritocracy. AFJR highlighted that it is urgent to implement the recommendations of the Venice Commission, including the extension of the mandates of high-ranking prosecutors and strengthening the guarantees for their activities.

Additionally, the association called for legislative changes to restore the competencies of the DNA (National Anticorruption Directorate) and improve the functioning of the Judicial Inspection, emphasizing that current practices may lead to political control over judicial activities. AFJR also reminded of the OSCE recommendations regarding the independence of the judicial system, which suggest a separation of powers within the judicial councils. In the context of a recent investigation, AFJR highlighted issues related to the prescription of cases and political influence on justice, demanding concrete measures to ensure transparency and accountability in the judicial system.