newsweek.ro/justitie/cedo-guvernul-sa-plateasca-ma

The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) revealed that Romania owes magistrates €1.85 billion in salary arrears, a situation stemming from legal actions initiated since 2006. Five judges requested immediate payment of €300,000, but the ECHR denied this due to Romania's poor financial state. The total arrears represent a significant financial burden, equivalent to the cost of building four regional hospitals. The government has been making payments since 2006, but the outstanding amount continues to grow, necessitating budget adjustments. The ECHR's decision allows for staggered payments and raises concerns about potential conflicts of interest in judges deciding on their own salary issues.