The Romanian government is on the offensive against critical voices from civil society. In an unprecedented move, the state-owned energy company Romgaz has filed a lawsuit against Greenpeace Romania, arguing that the nongovernmental organization be disbanded. Romgaz is 70% owned by the Romanian state and the lawsuit is supported by the Energy Ministry.

The lawsuit is part of a growing trend, said Romanian political scientist Cristian Pirvulescu. "Several environmental and human‑rights NGOs have faced increased scrutiny — whether through sudden inspections, burdensome reporting requirements or public rhetoric that questions their legitimacy. While each case has its own specifics, taken together they reveal a pattern of pressure that can discourage robust civic engagement," he said.

This escalation is the latest chapter in a debate that has been going on for some time. Observers say it has its roots in the huge natural gas deposits in the Black Sea off the coast of Romania.

Romgaz, along with the Austrian company OMV, want to extract this natural gas, which amounts to around 100 billion cubic meters (3.5 trillion cubic feet), enough to make Romania the largest natural gas producer in the EU. The government is hoping for energy independence and earnings in the billions.

Production is due to start in 2027 and while investors have rejoiced, environmentalists are horrified. Critics, in particular Greenpeace, have said the venture will torpedo the

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