The two agencies “have continued to carry forward a series of important cases, including with regard to a significant number of senior politicians and officials,” said EC spokesman Mark Gray, also noting that Romania has accelerated the trial of high-level corruption cases.
“As a result of findings of incompatibility issued under the new law, one holder of public office was dismissed, sanctions were applied in two other cases and six other holders of public office resigned,” the report says, although it points out that judicial effects to ANI’s investigations are often inconsistent and tardy.
The Government has taken steps to reform appointments to the High Court of Justice, after criticism from the Commission of the previous appointments, in August 2011.
Although Romania adopted legislation seeking to strengthen the disciplinary responsibility of the judiciary, the Commission’s report expresses concern about the ability of the High Council of Magistrates (CSM) to ensure integrity in the system.
The EC suggests Romania should develop a comprehensive action plan to improve judicial practice in high-level corruption, comprising seminars, meetings and training sessions as those organized by the National Institute of Magistracy and High Court of Justice.
A new national anti-corruption strategy, including procedures for lifting the immunity of MPs, has been developed and it is up to Parliament to adopt the new rules.
The Commission also says that, given the importance of public procurement to Romania’s economy, special efforts are needed to ensure that court cases concerning offenses against the European Union’s financial interests are resolved quickly and efficiently.
The European Commission has been monitoring Bulgaria and Romania’s progress in the justice sector since their EU accession in 2007. The Commission publishes two CVM reports yearly: an interim technical report in February and a final report in July, which also includes a political evaluation.