Romanian Parliament begins autumn session amid political disputes

The Romanian Parliament has commenced its autumn session, with the primary objective of voting for a new government to replace the current caretaker administration. The session began amidst political tension, as the Chamber of Deputies saw PNL and USR members walk out in protest over the proposed distribution of leadership roles within the Permanent Bureau.

Political parties have outlined distinct legislative priorities for the session. The PSD is focusing on industrial modernization, natural resource management, and improvements to health and education systems. The PNL aims to reform central public administration, state-owned companies, and the social insurance budget. USR is advocating for administrative-territorial reform, intelligence service oversight, and the elimination of extra taxation on part-time contracts.

Other key agenda items include electoral reforms, unitary public-sector pay systems, and changes to high school admission processes. The AUR party has proposed constitutional amendments to address government crises and limit the size of Parliament. The session follows a period of political instability since the dismissal of the previous government in May.