The Romanian Orthodox Church has voiced concern over a legislative proposal to decriminalize possession of drugs for personal use, warning that easing penalties could undermine efforts to prevent drug use, particularly among children and young people.

The bill proposes replacing criminal penalties, including imprisonment, with administrative fines for possessing prohibited substances for personal consumption. Its supporters argue that people who use drugs should be treated primarily as individuals in need of medical and social assistance rather than as criminals.

In a statement, the press office of the Romanian Patriarchate stressed that any changes to drug legislation must take into account the protection of human life, public health, families and society, with particular attention paid to minors and young people.

The Church warned that relaxing penalties could create the impression that drug use is normal and poses little danger. At the same time, it emphasized the importance of supporting people struggling with addiction and their families, noting that stigma and social isolation can hinder recovery.

The Patriarchate also called on the authorities to take decisive action against drug trafficking and strengthen measures to protect minors from exposure to illegal substances.

According to the Romanian Senate's website, the initiative was registered on October 7, 2026. Under the proposal, possession of prohibited substances for personal use would be reclassified as an administrative offense rather than a criminal offense.

The bill does not propose legalizing drugs. Their circulation would remain prohibited, and penalties for trafficking would remain unchanged.

The authors also propose allowing medical institutions to establish specially equipped facilities where people with diagnosed substance dependence could consume drugs under supervision. The measure is intended to reduce the risk of overdoses.

Supporters of the initiative argue that the current system places too much emphasis on penalizing drug users, while public resources should instead be directed primarily toward combating organized drug crime. They maintain that the threat of criminal prosecution does little to address addiction and that a criminal record can make it harder for people to find employment and reintegrate into society.

Opponents, however, fear that reducing penalties could weaken drug prevention efforts and send young people the message that drug use is acceptable. Lawmakers from several political parties have also spoken out against the initiative.

The Romanian Orthodox Church has urged policymakers to ensure that any legislative changes do not diminish public awareness of the dangers associated with drug use, while continuing to support people affected by addiction and their families.