Romanian Govt Starts Procedures To Assume Codes In Parl – Sources

“Applying the new codes will result in a transparent justice system and shorter trials. The new codes are a turning point in Romania’s justice reform, meeting the European Commission’s demands as part of the Mechanism for Cooperation and Verification,” the ministry said in a statement.

Prime Minister Emil Boc said in his turn that the Codes "will allow Romania to meet the deadline in fulfilling the obligations set out by the European Commission, with the goal of completing the Mechanism for Cooperation and Verification in the field of Justice."

The Codes’ development was lengthy and saw the contribution of many experts, plus extensive public debates before their submission to Parliament. During debates in Parliament, the draft criminal and civil Codes were improved, keeping the principles and structures of their initial form.

The Justice Ministry said the new criminal Code is simpler, which will facilitate its unitary and speedy enforcement by judicial bodies. At the same time, it respects fundamental principles of criminal law established by the Constitution and treaties on fundamental human rights to which Romania is party. It also includes regulations adopted by the European Union and harmonizes Romanian criminal law with the systems of the other member states.

The new civil Code aims to create a modern legislative framework, to reflect the realities and requirements of present Romanian society, fulfilling the conditions of European Union membership. One of the goals of the Code is to develop the business environment, both by revising regulations on contracts and by including regulations on banking-specific contracts. The draft civil Code does not allow same-sex marriage and does not recognize same-sex marriages or civil unions performed abroad.

The Government will send, Thursday, letters to the leaders of the two Parliament chambers, in view of initiating the required procedures.