Romania’s Constitutional Court (CCR) has postponed until October 20 the debate on the referral submitted by the High Court of Cassation and Justice (ÎCCJ) concerning amendments to magistrates’ pensions.
According to sources within the Court, the postponement was motivated by the fact that “the reporting judge has not yet submitted conclusions on the case.”
Unofficially, the reason is similar to that of the first postponement: the overlap with the European agenda during the same week, which includes the meeting of EU finance ministers (ECOFIN). Initially, the Court was scheduled to issue a decision on October 8, after it had already postponed the case once, on September 24. The referral, submitted by the ÎCCJ on September 4, challenges the law adopted by the Government through a vote of confidence, part of the so-called “Reform Package II.”
Economic and Budgetary Impact
The amendments to magistrates’ pensions have a direct impact on the national budget, given the special nature of these pensions. According to preliminary estimates by the Ministry of Finance, the adjustments foreseen in the new law could lead to a significant increase in public spending over the coming years, in a context where the pension system is already under pressure.
Economists warn that any further increase in special pensions must be aligned with fiscal sustainability, especially considering Romania’s budget deficit and its commitments to EU fiscal discipline.
Trade unions and professional associations within the judiciary are closely monitoring the situation, particularly regarding the provisions on seniority, retirement age, and the calculation base for special pensions. Some experts suggest that the changes could indirectly influence the indexation of standard pensions, generating additional pressure on the public pension system as a whole.
Political Reactions
The first postponement sparked intense political reactions. Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan publicly stated that the Government’s future depends on the Court’s decision in this case, hinting that a potential unfavorable ruling could have direct political consequences and strain the relationship between the Executive and the Legislature.
Meanwhile, opposition parties have criticized the repeated delays, arguing that they risk blocking key judicial and fiscal reforms that are crucial for Romania’s long-term economic stability.
Judicial Tensions
Within the judiciary, the issue has created notable tension. Professional associations are scrutinizing the effects of the new law, both in terms of pension calculation and its broader implications for human resource stability in the system. While some magistrates may benefit from the adjustments, others warn of the inequity and fiscal imbalance that may result from maintaining certain categories of special pensions.
Until the Constitutional Court issues its ruling, the Government remains in a waiting position, as both the economic and political environments are watching closely. Analysts underline that the Court’s decision will not only carry major budgetary implications but will also influence investor confidence and the overall perception of Romania’s fiscal stability.
