Romania considers toughening punishments for physical harm and domestic abuse against women
Romania Considering Harsher Penalties for Violence Against Women and Domestic Violence
In a significant move, Romania's Justice Minister, Radu Marinescu, announced on July 31, 2025, that the government is contemplating harsher penalties for violence against women and domestic violence. This decision comes in response to growing concerns over the issue, highlighted by a tragic incident in Prahova County where a pregnant woman was killed with an axe by her partner.
The minister emphasized the importance of not only having rules but also applying them rigorously, professionally, and responsibly. He underscored the significance of prevention in combating violence against women and domestic violence.
Currently, Romania is in the process of strengthening its legal response to these forms of violence. The country is considering harsher penalties, including the criminalization of femicide, but no finalized law explicitly criminalizing femicide has been enacted as of early August 2025.
In addition to the proposed penalties, Romania is also focusing on supportive measures for victims. Legislation has been introduced encouraging the employment of victims of domestic violence, providing employers with state subsidies for hiring victims on permanent contracts to aid their social and professional reintegration.
On a broader scale, Romania is implementing the European directive targeting violence against women and domestic violence, including online harassment. The minister also suggested expanding the protection order and related legislation in scope and conditions.
It's worth noting that the criminalization of femicide is already in an advanced adoption process in Italy. The minister noted this development, hinting at potential learning from European counterparts.
However, Romania's current legislation for combating violence, including domestic violence, is deemed adequate according to European standards. The minister highlighted this point, indicating that the focus is more on refining and expanding existing measures rather than a complete overhaul.
While Romania is making strides in addressing violence against women and domestic violence, the reforms are primarily in planning or early discussion stages as of August 2025. Comprehensive criminal law reforms remain forthcoming, but the government's active engagement on this issue is evident.
In the UK, strong legislative protections have been introduced with the Domestic Abuse Act (2021), which includes prohibiting perpetrators from cross-examining victims, polygraph testing conditions on released offenders, and new Domestic Abuse Protection Orders. While Romania may explore similar legislative models as it updates its framework, no direct Romania-specific legislation akin to this Act appears currently in effect from the available data.
In June, a protest took place in Bucharest's Victory Square against the killing of women in Romania, underscoring the urgency of these reforms. The protest was a poignant reminder of the need for action, and the government's commitment to addressing this issue is a promising step towards a safer and more equitable future for all Romanian citizens.
- Romania's policy-and-legislation regarding women's health and mental-health is evolving, with a focus on harsher penalties for violence against women and domestic violence, such as the criminalization of femicide.
- In an attempt to support victims of domestic violence, Romania is introducing legislation encouraging the employment of these victims, offering state subsidies for hiring them on permanent contracts to aid their social and professional reintegration.
- The government of Romania is currently working to strengthen its legal response to violence against women and domestic violence, following European directives and adopting best practices from other European countries, like Italy, in the field of health-and-wellness and policy-and-legislation.
