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This image consists of a poster with a few images of women and there is a text on it.

Romania’s Court Overturns Ban on Gender Studies in Historic Ruling

Romania’s Constitutional Court has struck down a controversial 2020 law that sought to ban gender studies in schools and universities. The decision marks a victory for academic freedom and civic resistance against a growing wave of illiberal policies targeting education and human rights.

In 2020, Romania’s parliament passed legislation prohibiting any reference to gender identity in educational institutions. The move sparked immediate backlash, with 60 progressive NGOs launching a petition to align sex education with the World Health Organization’s human rights standards. Meanwhile, 86 conservative and religious groups opposed the proposal, arguing that family rights should take precedence over individual freedoms.

The Constitutional Court’s ruling ensures that universities in Romania can continue teaching gender studies without legal restrictions. The case underscores the importance of institutional checks and public engagement in countering illiberal policies. For now, the decision preserves a space for critical education—but the broader struggle over rights and academic freedom remains ongoing.

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