Romania has enacted a law targeting femicide—the intentional killing of women based on their gender. The legislation introduces the term into national law and prescribes penalties ranging from 15 to 25 years in prison up to life imprisonment.

“Violence against women is one of the lowest and most insulting acts. For a long time, this type of aggression was either ignored or insufficiently addressed, leading to tragic consequences,” wrote Romanian President Nicușor Dan on his X account.

Dan emphasized that the law, which establishes strict punishments and helps prevent femicide and domestic violence, is “extremely necessary” for the country.

According to the president, the law transforms Romania's commitment to ensuring the safety of women and children into a special preventive mechanism. It provides the government with the necessary tools for timely intervention and is a step toward a more efficient and humane justice system, Dan added.

The bill was introduced to parliament in October 2025. The Romanian Senate approved it in February, and the Chamber of Deputies passed it in March. The document received broad support, with over 270 deputies from all political parties signing it. On April 23, the president signed the decree enacting the law.

Now, femicide in Romania carries a sentence of 15 to 25 years in prison or life imprisonment.

The explanatory memorandum states that the need to strengthen penalties is linked to an increase in domestic crimes. Specifically, during the first eight months of 2025, the country recorded 33 murders committed by family members, with 69% of victims being women and girls. On average, three women die at the hands of relatives each month in Romania.

Source: www.gazeta.uz