Romania proposes administrative reform to merge small localities

The Romanian government is advancing an administrative-territorial reform aimed at merging small localities with fewer than 1,500 inhabitants. The proposal, supported by PSD leader Sorin Grindeanu, includes a timeline where voluntary mergers would take place by March 1, 2027, followed by mandatory consolidations intended to take effect before the 2028 local elections.

Nationally, approximately 429 administrative-territorial units fall below the 1,500-person threshold. In Prahova county, 11 communes are below this limit, while in Satu Mare, eight communes are affected, potentially impacting the political mandates of parties such as UDMR, FDGR, PSD, and PNL.

While some officials argue that larger administrative units will have better financial capacity for investments like water, gas, and roads, others have raised concerns. PNL Senator Călin Petru Marian emphasized that the reform must be based on rigorous studies and community consultation to address issues like depopulation and economic decline, rather than being decided solely from an office.