Our Topic

The repeated presidential elections in Romania in 2025 marked a turning point for the country’s political development. Held in a climate of political polarization, economic uncertainty, and heightened geopolitical tensions in the wider Black Sea region, the elections were closely watched both domestically and across Europe. The outcome was perceived as a relief in the entire European Union. However, as the break-up of the pro-European coalition only one year later has shown, the country’s direction is still unclear and political stability not a given. The current situation raises important questions about the future direction of democratic reforms, governance, and Romania’s role within the European Union and NATO.

This roundtable aims to provide an opportunity to discuss the current state of play in Romanian politics and its reform agenda, as well as developments in the economy, energy sector, and foreign policy. Particular attention will be given to the challenges and opportunities facing Romania as it navigates internal transformation and increasing geopolitical pressures in the region. The event seeks to bring together key stakeholders from federal ministries, political institutions, academia, and civil society in Berlin who work on Romania to exchange perspectives, strengthen networks, and identify areas for closer cooperation and dialogue. It is held under Chatham House Rule.

Part I: Romania’s Politics One Year After the Elections
Speakers

• Daniela-Maria Mariș, Political Scientist, Desk Officer at Konrad Adenauer Foundation, Berlin
• Alina Inayeh, Affiliate Expert & Lead Advisor, Aspen Institute Romania, Bucharest

Chair

• Christian Hagemann, Executive Director, Southeast Europe Association, Munich

Guiding Questions

• Relationship among the parties in parliament
• Role and strength of AUR
• Reform efforts in the past year
• The future of the reform agenda and EU support for it
• Romania’s position at the Eastern Flank of NATO
• Romania’s relations to Moldova and Hungary

Part II: Focus on Policy Areas: Economic and Energy Policy
Speakers

• Laurian Lungu, Co- Founder, Consilium Policy Advisers Group, Bucharest
• Mihnea Cătuți, Executive Director, Energy Policy Group, Bucharest

Chair

• Lorin Stan, Member of the Board of Trustees, German-Romanian Forum, Berlin

Guiding Questions

• Main economic challenges
• Economic repercussions of reforms
• Expected growth trajectories in 2026 and 2027
• Important energy projects and energy policy in Romania