Romania debates law mandating flag ceremonies and sanctions

A legislative proposal regarding the National Flag Day is under debate in the Romanian Chamber of Deputies. Initiated by Mircia Chelaru of the AUR party, the bill introduces various sanctions for failing to observe ceremonies dedicated to the national flag.

Key provisions include fines of up to 10,000 lei for officials who refuse to kiss the national flag and up to 20,000 lei for media institutions that do not allocate 30 minutes of broadcasting to the occasion. Local authorities could face fines of 30,000 lei if they fail to establish a ‘Tricolor Square’ within 45 days. Non-participation by authorities in ceremonies could also be classified as abuse of office.

The Romanian Patriarchate stated it was not consulted regarding the mandatory prayer text included in the draft, which specifies a blessing to be recited by military priests or church hierarchs. The Patriarchate intends to submit its own proposal for a blessing that aligns with Orthodox liturgical traditions. Meanwhile, the RMDSZ party has expressed opposition to the draft, criticizing the nature of the proposed requirements.