EU to Evaluate Romanian Integrity Law Amid Fund Block Request

The European Commission (EC) is set to evaluate recent changes to Romania's integrity law during the country's final payment request under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR). This marks the Commission's initial response to appeals from European political groups. The European People's Party (PPE) and Renew Europe have urged the EC to withhold €770 million in EU funds, citing concerns over the so-called 'Fritz amendment.'

The amendment, recently passed by the Romanian Parliament, has sparked significant controversy. It has been criticized for allegedly targeting Timișoara Mayor Dominic Fritz, a German national, and for violating principles of non-retroactivity and political impartiality. The PPE and Renew Europe have expressed serious concerns about its implications for the rule of law in Romania. Manfred Weber, leader of the PPE, and Valérie Hayer from Renew Europe, have both raised alarms over the potential risk this funding poses to Romanian democracy. They have called for urgent action from the EC. Their demands emphasize the need for conditions tied to rule of law, EU law, human rights, and recommendations from the Venice Commission.

Despite these developments, Romanian authorities have not yet submitted their sixth payment request.

Meanwhile, the EC's services are engaged in technical discussions with Romania to ensure the PNRR's implementation by the August 31, 2026 deadline. An EC spokesperson stated, 'No further comments in this stage.' The 'Fritz amendment' has become a focal point for these discussions, with its direct impact on Mayor Fritz's mandate drawing particular scrutiny. The amendment's compliance with EU laws, given Fritz's German citizenship, further complicates the situation. As the EC's evaluation proceeds, the outcome could significantly influence Romania's access to critical EU funds.