The Death of Ion Iliescu, the First President of Romania After the Revolution

• Ion Iliescu passed away on September 5, 2025, at the age of 95.
• He held the position of President of Romania after the fall of communism in 1989.
• Iliescu was implicated in accusations of crimes against humanity during the period of the revolution.

On September 5, 2025, Ion Iliescu, the first President of Romania, elected in democratic elections after the fall of communism in 1989, passed away at the age of 95. Iliescu took power after the loss of communist dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu on December 25, 1989, during a revolution that resulted in the deaths of over 1,100 people. About 862 of them died even before Iliescu assumed power.

Iliescu was elected twice to the presidential post in 1992 and 2000. He became well-known for his role in the events of the revolution, as well as through accusations of crimes against humanity related to his actions during and after the uprising.

After the revolution, Iliescu closed the mines in the Jiu Valley due to participation in the protests in 1990, which led to violence and the deaths of people. Throughout his political career, he aimed to maintain ties with the Soviet Union, but Romania became a member of NATO in 2004.

After the end of his last presidential term, Iliescu remained active in politics as a deputy from the Social Democratic Party, which he founded. His death elicited a reaction from the government of Romania, which expressed condolences from his family and close ones.

Iliescu left a significant mark in the history of Romania, but his legacy remains controversial. Many Romanians are still awaiting justice for the events that took place during his rule.

Tags: Europe/Politics