In a debate held at the European Parliament in Strasbourg, Frans Timmermans, the European Commission’s first vice president cited growing concerns surrounding rule of law in Romania. He expressed worries about changes to the country’s courts and criminal code, resulting in the country “moving backwards” in the fight against corruption. The Venice Commission, a constitutional affairs advisory body of the Council of Europe, will soon publish its final opinion on controversial laws and make recommendations for amendments. Romania's constitutional court will also debate the legislation soon.