BENCHMARKS FOR QUALITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY IN THE ROMANIAN JUDICIAL SYSTEM WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF EUROPEAN REFORM

The reform of judicial systems across Europe has increasingly emphasized judicial independence, quality, and accountability as fundamental components of the rule of law, accompanied by a shift toward a citizen-oriented model of justice. In Romania, accession to the European Union generated substantial structural and institutional changes aimed at improving judicial performance through the implementation of quality management principles and performance-based evaluation tools. This transformation reflects a broader understanding of justice as a public service, with the citizen positioned as the primary beneficiary. The article explores Romania’s progress in developing a system of quality indicators intended to ensure transparency, efficiency, and informed assessment of judicial activity. Since 2014–2016, participation in European cooperation frameworks has enabled the adoption of common benchmarks and analytical instruments, facilitating both internal evaluation and international comparison. Central to this process is the correlation between judicial independence and accountability, viewed as interdependent pillars of an effective and credible justice system. Special attention is given to Romania’s involvement in initiatives of the European Network of Councils for the Judiciary, which promote standardized indicators for measuring autonomy, responsibility, and quality. Despite notable advancements, the absence of systematic mechanisms for collecting court users’ perceptions remains a significant limitation. The study concludes that sustainable judicial reform depends on embedding quality management as a strategic resource for modernization, enhanced accountability, and increased public confidence.