According to the most recent annual report on the implementation of rulings released on Wednesday, March 19, Romania tops the list for closing the highest number of cases in 2024 at the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR).

The yearly report issued by the Council of Europe’s Committee of Ministers indicates that 992 cases were handed over from the European Court of Human Rights to the Committee for supervision last year. Among these 992 new cases, 194 were categorized as "lead" cases—typically necessitating state intervention—and 798 were considered repetitive cases, stemming from issues previously highlighted by the Court. During 2024, the Committee of Ministers concluded a total of 894 cases, comprising 161 lead cases and 733 repetitive ones.

From the total of 116 cases involving Romania that were concluded in 2024, 11 were categorized as "lead" cases. Consequently, Romania holds the second position in the report, following Turkey which had 16 such cases, and preceding Croatia with 10 cases.

Romania leads in resolving repeat cases from the previous year, having closed 105 such instances, ahead of Turkey and Ukraine, which both resolved 72 each. The report further indicates that as of December 2024, half of the unresolved cases across the 46 member nations were confined to just five countries, one of which was Romania.

In terms of case durations, Romania stands at third place amongst the leading five nations which possess the largest quantity of substantial cases pending for over half a decade, totaling 62 cases by the close of last year.

Romania is among the five countries with the most instances where compensation payouts awaited final approval as of December 2024, totaling 99 cases.

The Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Alain Berset, has emphasized the necessity for continued efforts to enforce decisions made by the European Court of Human Rights. "This report illustrates the tangible, beneficial effects that rulings from the European Court of Human Rights can have on the everyday experiences of Europeans across the continent," he stated. "Although significant progress has been realized, additional work remains necessary. Ensuring swift implementation of these court orders is crucial for upholding legal principles and maintaining democratic oversight within Europe."

The report further indicates that even though Ukraine faced significant difficulties due to Russia’s persistent aggressive warfare, the country continued to vigorously participate in executing the rulings made by the European Court of Human Rights throughout 2024. This effort led to the resolution and closing of 75 cases (which included three prominent ones).

radu@romania-insider.com

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