Constitutional Court of Romania faces political scrutiny and declining trust

The Constitutional Court of Romania (CCR) is facing a significant crisis of public trust and intense political scrutiny. Recent polling indicates a deep rift between the institution and the citizenry, with one survey from January 2026 showing that 73% of Romanians held a negative view of the Court, while over 70% expressed little to no confidence in the justice system.

The Court has become a focal point for opposing political factions. Since December 2024, sovereignist groups have accused the CCR of conducting a ‘coup d’état’ following its decision to annul the first round of the presidential elections. Conversely, since August 2026, the Save Romania Union has accused the institution of ‘brutal abuse of power’ regarding the validation of the so-called ‘Fritz amendment’.

Critics from across the political spectrum have utilized rhetoric involving ‘institutional capture’ and the suspension of the rule of law. While the Court's decisions are legally binding and definitive, the ongoing political attacks highlight a growing tension regarding the legitimacy of constitutional oversight in a democratic state.