Council of Europe Warns Romania on Illegal Care Homes

Michael O’Flaherty, the Council of Europe's Commissioner for Human Rights, has issued a warning to Romanian authorities regarding the situation in vulnerable care homes, following DIICOT's investigation into the Dumbrava case. O’Flaherty sent a public letter to the dismissed Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan and interim Minister Dragoș Pîslaru, acknowledging Romania's progress in social services reform while also pointing out persistent challenges.

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Dear Mr. Prime Minister, I am writing to follow up on my recent visit to Romania from May 26 to 29, 2026, when I had the opportunity to gain an in-depth perspective on the human rights situation of the elderly in residential care homes.

The Commissioner commended DIICOT's intervention in the illegal care center in Dumbrava, Bihor county, and the measures taken to transfer residents to accredited facilities. However, he stressed the importance of conducting ongoing judicial procedures with integrity and independence, and thoroughly investigating all circumstances of the case. O’Flaherty's letter, published by the Council of Europe, noted his recent visit to Romania from May 26-29, during which he gained insight into the human rights situation of the elderly in residential care.

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I express my appreciation for the progress Romania has made in reforming social services in recent years, including strengthening regulations on authorization and quality standards for long-term care. I was also encouraged by the commitment shown by many of those working in care homes.

While appreciating Romania's efforts in strengthening regulations for authorization and quality standards in long-term care, O’Flaherty observed that elderly individuals and others in care institutions are still often viewed as service recipients rather than full rights holders. He emphasized that this perspective requires a system-wide reevaluation. Furthermore, a deficit in care services hinders access, particularly given Romania's aging population and increasing care needs. Vulnerable individuals, including those in poverty, with disabilities, or mental health issues, often fall through the cracks of support systems.

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However, I observed some challenges. Elderly people and other individuals in care institutions continue to be viewed more as beneficiaries of services than as full rights holders, a perspective that requires a system-wide reevaluation.

O’Flaherty also called for better integration of social and health systems, noting that inspections need review. He urged that the system should be developed to holistically address the diverse and complex circumstances of individuals, rather than relying on rigid classifications. The Commissioner's intervention underscores the need for continued vigilance and reform to ensure the rights and well-being of vulnerable populations in Romania.

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It would be useful to review inspection methods.