International trade is an essential ingredient to Romania’s prosperity. And trade can only flourish when markets are open, trust is shared, and opportunities for economic mobility are available to workers.

The Legatum Institute was delighted to visit Bucharest on 10 October to showcase our Global Index of Economic Openness (GIEO) and, in particular, the in-depth case study that we have produced on Romania.

Ahead of the presidential elections in November, it was a timely opportunity for the international and domestic business community to understand how economic openness is being realised across the country and to assess what government and institutional engagement is required to prevent Romania from being held back.

The program featured a short overview presentation from our Director of Policy, Dr Stephen Brien, and a panel discussion with a diverse group of stakeholders. Attendees of the event were given an opportunity to interact with the speakers as part of the formal session.