The good news: Romania officially adopts a law recognising femicide
Romania’s Chamber of Deputies has adopted a new law introducing a definition of femicide into national legislation, with overwhelming cross-party support. The bill defines femicide as the intentional killing of a woman or death resulting from gender-based violence and allows such crimes to be punished as aggravated murder, carrying sentences of 15 to 25 years or life imprisonment.
The bill that introduces the term femicide into the legislation and punishes femicide in the same way as aggravated murder was adopted by a majority. There were 284 votes in favour in the Chamber of Deputies, where today there was both the debate and the final vote on the initiative. In order to enter into force, the law needs to be promulgated by President Nicușor Dan.
The law also introduces gender-related motives and relationships (such as current or former partners) as aggravating factors. The reform reflects growing recognition of femicide as a systemic form of violence against women, driven by sustained pressure from civil society and survivors. The law was awaiting promulgation by the president when this report was published.
SOURCE: Romania Journal, 25 March 2026. ART CREDITS: David Espinosa for IPPF x Fine Acts.
+ + +
The bad news: Romanian Parliament allocates public funds to an anti-abortion organisation
The Romanian Parliament has approved the allocation of state budget funding to “Clujul pentru Viață,” an organisation known for its anti-choice activities, including spreading misinformation about abortion and stigmatising women seeking care.
The decision has sparked strong criticism from civil society, with the ASTRA Network warning that it legitimises and financially supports efforts to restrict reproductive rights. Advocates argue that public funds should be used to support evidence-based healthcare and uphold women’s autonomy – not organisations that undermine them.
Civil society groups are calling for the provision to be reversed and urging national and European institutions to hold Romanian authorities accountable.
SOURCE: IPPF Opposition Update, 9 April 2026.