In a surprising move, judges from 16 courts of appeal in Romania have come together to express their strong opposition to a draft law on pension reform. The judges are calling for the urgent withdrawal of the draft law, which they believe will have severe consequences for the judiciary and the country’s economy. The draft law, which aims to reform the pension system in Romania, has been met with widespread criticism from various sectors, including the judiciary. The judges argue that the draft law will lead to a significant reduction in their pensions, which will affect their livelihoods and ability to perform their duties impartially. They also claim that the draft law will create a significant disparity between the pensions of judges and those of other public sector employees. The judges are concerned that the draft law will undermine the independence of the judiciary and create a situation where judges are no longer able to make decisions without fear of reprisal. They also argue that the draft law will lead to a brain drain in the judiciary, as experienced judges may choose to retire early rather than face a significant reduction in their pensions. The judges are not alone in their opposition to the draft law, as other sectors, including the opposition parties and civil society organizations, have also expressed their concerns. The draft law has been criticized for being rushed and lacking proper consultation with relevant stakeholders. The government has defended the draft law, arguing that it is necessary to ensure the long-term sustainability of the pension system. However, the judges and other critics argue that the draft law is not the solution to the problems facing the pension system and that it will only serve to exacerbate the existing issues. The situation has sparked a heated debate in Romania, with many calling for a more nuanced approach to pension reform. The judges’ opposition to the draft law has also raised concerns about the rule of law in Romania and the ability of the government to push through legislation without proper consultation. The European Union has also expressed concerns about the draft law, citing concerns over its impact on the independence of the judiciary. The Romanian government has been under pressure from the EU to ensure that the country’s judiciary is independent and impartial. The draft law has also sparked concerns about the potential for corruption and the ability of the government to influence the judiciary. The judges’ opposition to the draft law has been seen as a significant blow to the government’s efforts to push through the legislation. The government has been forced to reconsider its approach to pension reform and to engage in further consultation with relevant stakeholders. The situation has highlighted the need for a more inclusive and transparent approach to policymaking in Romania. The judges’ opposition to the draft law has also raised questions about the government’s commitment to the rule of law and its ability to ensure that the judiciary is independent and impartial. The draft law has been criticized for being a threat to the stability of the pension system and the livelihoods of judges and other public sector employees. The situation has sparked a wider debate about the need for pension reform in Romania and the best approach to achieving it. The government has been forced to go back to the drawing board and to reconsider its approach to pension reform. The judges’ opposition to the draft law has been seen as a significant victory for the judiciary and a testament to their commitment to upholding the rule of law. The situation has also highlighted the need for greater transparency and accountability in policymaking in Romania. The draft law has been criticized for being rushed and lacking proper consultation with relevant stakeholders. The government has been forced to engage in further consultation and to reconsider its approach to pension reform. The situation has sparked a heated debate in Romania, with many calling for a more nuanced approach to pension reform. The judges’ opposition to the draft law has raised concerns about the potential for corruption and the ability of the government to influence the judiciary. The situation has highlighted the need for a more inclusive and transparent approach to policymaking in Romania.