What Happened: Tens of thousands of demonstrators took to the streets in Romania over the weekend to protest corruption and demand the government's resignation, Deutsche Welle reported Aug. 12.
Why It Matters: Anti-corruption protests are common in Romania and demonstrations have reached sizes similar to those over the weekend in recent years. However, the government's crackdown this time around was unique and may force the European Union to become involved.
Background: Multiple protests have occurred in Romania against repeated efforts from the current government, which took office in early 2017, to soften anti-corruption measures.
Read More:
- Romania: Yet Another Prime Minister Steps Down (Jan. 16, 2018)
- Romania: The Limits of Corruption (Nov. 6, 2017)
- Why the West Wants Romania to Be Less Corrupt (June 11, 2015)
