Romanian Politics – New Pro‑European Coalition, Prime Minister Appointed and Bold Reform Agenda

As June ends, Romania concludes a prolonged phase of political uncertainty. The spotlight is on a four-party pro-European government led by newly appointed Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan, supported by President Nicușor Dan. Stirinoi.com, we examine the latest developments: the PM’s appointment, the parliamentary confidence vote, the reform roadmap, and both political and economic outlooks.

1. Appointment of Ilie Bolojan as PM

Centrist President Nicușor Dan nominated Ilie Bolojan (PNL), former mayor and interim Senate President, as Romania’s next Prime Minister. His nomination closed weeks of tense negotiations among pro-European parties.

Bolojan is viewed as a stabilizing figure, suitable to tackle Romania’s deep budget deficit, the highest in the EU last year (~9.3% of GDP) .

2. Parliamentary Confidence Vote

On June 23, Parliament approved the new government with 301 votes in favor, 9 against . The coalition comprises PNL, PSD, USR, and UDMR, backed by national minorities, and plans a rotating premiership in 2027 .

The inauguration ceremony at Cotroceni Palace marked the return to stable governance after months of deadlock .

3. Reform and Governance Programme

The government unveiled an ambitious 2025–2028 roadmap outlining fiscal reforms, deficit cuts, and institutional strengthening .

Key measures:

• Budget reduction through spending cuts, delayed investments, and targeted tax increases, including VAT.

• A 20% cut in public sector jobs and a temporary levy on banks’ profits .

• Greater transparency, anti-corruption initiatives, and institutional reform.

4. Context & Interesting Facts

• Presidential crisis: The annulment of the December 2024 election over alleged Russian interference triggered a tense campaign and protests, until Nicușor Dan won the rerun in May 2025 .

• Mass demonstrations: From December to May, thousands protested the election annulment, ending with the resignation of PM Marcel Ciolacu on May 5.

• Strong civic engagement: Around 30,000 marched in Bucharest’s Pride parade on June 7 amid rising conservative rhetoric .

• EU pressure: The European Commission initiated disciplinary proceedings due to Romania’s excessive 9.3% budget deficit and demanded a credible plan by June 20 .

5. Expert Views

• Political analysts: Bolojan is seen as a pragmatic leader who can maintain coalition unity until the planned 2027 rotation .

• Economic experts: The fiscal measures are necessary but delicate—VAT hikes are controversial, particularly opposed by USR and UDMR .Civil society and youth: Active civic engagement reflects growing calls for transparency, anti-corruption, and LGBT rights .

6. Conclusion

The June 2025 appointment of Ilie Bolojan’s pro-European government signifies the start of a new era of political stability, reforms, and EU alignment.