Journey of Romania to democracy

  • Ending of Communist

    The communist regime of Romania under Nicolae Ceaușescu is overthrown in a violent revolution, ending 42 years of Communist rule.
  • Multiparty democracy

    Romania adopts a new constitution, which establishes a multiparty democracy and a market economy.
  • The first post-communist elections

    The first post-communist elections are held, resulting in the formation of a coalition government led by the National Salvation Front (FSN).
  • Ion Iliescu

    Presidential elections are held, and Ion Iliescu, the former communist leader and founder of the FSN, is elected president.
  • Democratic Convention of Romania

    Presidential and parliamentary elections are held, and the opposition Democratic Convention of Romania (CDR) wins a majority of seats in parliament. Emil Constantinescu is elected president.
  • Ion Iliescu

    Ion Iliescu is re-elected as president.
  • EU membership

    Romania signs the European Union accession treaty, committing to political and economic reforms required for EU membership.
  • European Union

    Romania becomes a member of the European Union.
  • Traian Basescu

    Romania's Constitutional Court declares the impeachment of President Traian Basescu invalid, ending a political crisis that had threatened the country's democracy.
  • Klaus Iohannis

    Presidential elections are held, and Klaus Iohannis, a former mayor of Sibiu, is elected president.
  • Social Democratic Party

    The ruling Social Democratic Party (PSD) government introduces controversial changes to the criminal code and judiciary system, sparking widespread protests and international criticism.
  • Klaus Iohannis

    Presidential elections are held, and Klaus Iohannis is re-elected as president.
  • European Parliament elections

    Romania holds European Parliament elections, with the PSD suffering a significant defeat.
  • Ludovic Orban

    Ludovic Orban of the National Liberal Party (PNL) becomes prime minister after the PSD government is ousted in a no-confidence vote.
  • New government

    Parliamentary elections are held, and the PNL wins a narrow majority, forming a new government led by Florin Cîțu.