Romania

(9 November 2017, CCPR/C/ROU/CO/5, Concluding observations on fifth report, paras. 23 and 24)

“The Committee reiterates its concern over the high number of cases of domestic violence, including cases of violence against children and allegations that cases of violence against women and children remain underreported. The Committee is also concerned about the high-rate of withdrawal of complaints by victims, the limited scope of ex officio prosecution, the manner of use of mediation, and insufficient commitment of the State party to address domestic violence effectively (arts. 2, 3, 7, 24 and 26).

“The State party should strengthen its efforts to prevent and supress domestic violence against women and children, including (a) by taking further action to raise awareness of the unacceptability and adverse impact of violence against women and children; (b) by enforcing the prohibition of corporal punishment in Law no. 272/2004; and (c) by ensuring that all reports of domestic violence are promptly, thoroughly and effectively investigated, including, where appropriate, ex officio, that the perpetrators are prosecuted and, if convicted, punished with commensurate sanctions and that the victims have access to effective remedies and means of protection. It should also intensify training State officials, in particular law enforcement officials, judges, prosecutors, and health professionals to ensure that they are able to respond promptly and effectively to cases of domestic violence.”