Thousands of Romanians protested against government measures perceived as backtracking on anti-corruption efforts. The ruling coalition aims to pass legislation that critics argue would place the judiciary under political control. Journalist Lucian Mîndruta and former Prime Minister Dacian Ciolos expressed concerns about the government's transparency and democratic process. The European Commission has noted a halt in judicial reforms and ongoing challenges to judicial independence in Romania.

Former King Michael of Romania has passed away at age 96 in Switzerland. He was revered for his role in World War II, ousting a Nazi-backed leader. Bucharest residents and journalist Cristina Topescu expressed their respect for his contributions to democracy and Romania. President Klaus Iohannis acknowledged his significant place in Romanian history. Michael's daughter, Crown Princess Margaret, succeeds him as head of the Romanian royal House. His body will be laid in state at Peles Castle and in Bucharest before burial in Curtea de Arges. Despite being a favored personality, there have been no moves to restore the monarchy.

Tens of thousands of Romanians protested against a plan by the ruling Social Democrats to overhaul the justice system, which they believe would compromise anti-corruption efforts and place the system under political control. The largest demonstration since earlier in the year, it included former Prime Minister Dacian Ciolos. The government's previous attempt to decriminalize official misconduct had been met with extensive protests, leading to its abandonment. Romanian prosecutors have been actively pursuing public officials in anti-corruption efforts over the past decade.