The 2017 Romanian Government's Controversial Decree

Name: The 2017 Romanian Government's Controversial Decree
Start: 2017-01-31
Location: Unspecified

Background of the Emergency Decree

In January 2017, the Romanian government made headlines when it decided to pass an emergency decree that aimed to decriminalize corruption charges involving amounts under 200,000 lei (approximately €44,000). This move sparked widespread outrage among the populace, as many viewed it as an attempt to shield corrupt politicians and officials from prosecution. The government, led by the Social Democratic Party (PSD) under Prime Minister Sorin Grindeanu, argued that the legislation was a necessary measure to relieve overcrowded prisons. However, critics accused the administration of prioritizing the interests of corrupt individuals over justice and accountability.

The Scope of the Decree

The emergency decree proposed to free thousands of prisoners and essentially decriminalize certain acts of corruption, which directly affected perceptions of integrity within the Romanian political system. By making it legal to commit certain acts of corruption, the government faced accusations of undermining judicial independence and the fight against corruption that had been strongly advocated by the European Union and various civil society organizations.

Immediate Public Reaction

As the news of the decree broke, it didn’t take long for the Romanian public to respond. Massive protests erupted in Bucharest and across the country, drawing thousands of citizens who were determined to express their discontent. The streets were filled with chants calling for the government to rescind the decree, rallying around the phrase ”We want our country back.” These gatherings were peaceful yet fervent, marking a significant moment in Romanian civil activism.

The Protests and Their Impact

The protests that followed the government's decision were among the largest in Europe in recent years, with reports suggesting over 300,000 people took to the streets throughout the country. The resilience of the protesters highlighted a strong commitment to combating corruption and reinforcing democratic principles within Romania. Activists emphasized the critical need to protect the judiciary and keep corrupt practices in check.

Government Response to Protests

In response to the overwhelming public sentiment, the government initially remained defiant. However, as the protests grew in size and intensity, Prime Minister Grindeanu was compelled to reconsider the decree. Just days later, facing immense pressure and civic activism, he announced plans to withdraw the controversial legislation, which was celebrated by many as a triumph for democracy and civic engagement.

The Long-Term Effects on Romanian Politics

The events surrounding the 2017 emergency decree not only illuminated the widespread frustration with perceived governmental corruption but also invigorated the civil rights movement within Romania. The protests served as a wake-up call to political leaders and a reminder of the power of collective action. The incident became a pivotal moment in Romanian history, galvanizing citizens to demand accountability from their leaders and reinforcing the importance of transparency in governance.

Fun Fact

The Power of Digital Activism

Interestingly, social media played a crucial role in mobilizing protesters during the demonstrations. Platforms like Facebook and Twitter helped spread the news quickly, allowing citizens to organize and coordinate their efforts against the government’s decree effectively.