Prosecutor's Office sets 2026 priorities; experts urge clear justice reform provisions
The Prosecutor's Office has outlined its priorities for 2026, which include focusing on cases that affect human rights and state security, aligning the legal framework with European standards, and improving the organization and efficiency of the system. While the document aims to address essential measures, experts believe it should incorporate clear provisions for justice reform.
On February 19, the Superior Council of Prosecutors (SCP) approved the draft priorities of the Prosecutor's Office for 2026, as presented by Alexandru Machidon, the acting Prosecutor General. Dumitru Obadă, the President of the SCP, emphasized that the main objective is to strengthen justice reform and align the country with European standards.
"From my perspective, the key milestones to be achieved in 2026 are clearly outlined. They also align with the National Action Plan for justice reform, including our commitments for this year. The priority is the digitalization of the management of the Prosecutor's Office. Additionally, the SCP prioritises the interconnection of digital systems. We welcome the Prosecutor's Office's commitment to this aspect, particularly in terms of international cooperation and adapting the acquis communautaire to national legislation," stated Dumitru Obadă.
However, despite the importance of these priorities, they do not specify concrete measures for reforming the justice system, according to WatchDog justice expert Alexandru Bot.
"These priorities are merely common tasks. They do not enhance or diminish the significance of the Prosecutor's Office. We do have a new focus on treason cases. It would be beneficial to organize a round table with judges and lawyers to clarify the rules regarding accountability for treason. Furthermore, concerning corruption cases, we need to understand why some are progressing quickly while others are still delayed in court," emphasized Alexandru Bot.
He also suggested that the document could have included an audit of files from the period of state capture, measures for properly handling high-profile cases, which would enhance our eligibility as a candidate country for the European Union, and a review of recent amendments to the Criminal Code regarding the increase in the statute of limitations, which contributes to overcrowding in prisons.
The Prosecutor's Office's priorities for the current year will be discussed at the General Assembly of Prosecutors on March 20.
Author: Eva Fruntașu
