Multiple women allege Romanian sociologist Marius Pieleanu of engaging in sexual misconduct
In a shocking turn of events, Romanian sociologist and political analyst Marius Pieleanu has found himself at the centre of sexual abuse allegations involving multiple women, dating back to the 1990s and 2000s. These allegations were brought to light through an investigation conducted by Snoop journalists, leading to significant public attention and official consequences.
The National School of Political and Administrative Studies (SNSPA) was the centre of the storm, as Pieleanu held a professor position there. Following the revelations, SNSPA terminated Pieleanu's contract in early August 2025[1]. The termination was not the only consequence, as public protests by students and calls for accountability emerged, highlighting issues of exploitation, silence, and vulnerability in academic settings[2][3].
Romanian public figures, including President Nicușor Dan, called for a formal commission of inquiry at SNSPA to investigate these sexual abuse claims following testimony published by Snoop.ro journalists[4]. The Snoop investigation collected testimonies from at least three women who described abuse or inappropriate behaviour by Pieleanu, despite facing intense pressures and threats[5].
One of the key figures mentioned in the investigation is Florentin Dichiu, founder of Avangarde, Pieleanu's most well-known company. It is said that Dichiu has access to video cameras on SNSPA premises, where Pieleanu's brother-in-law has managed the building since 2014[6].
The women who came forward are aged between 19 and 28, and include a former SNSPA student. They described being locked in Pieleanu's office for several hours in the late 1990s and early 2000s, with one being coerced into sexual acts[7].
When questioned about the sexual abuse allegations, Pieleanu threatened Snoop with a lawsuit[8]. It is worth noting that another investigation into sexual abuse at SNSPA was conducted by Snoop last summer, involving professor Alfred Bulai. Bulai was detained by prosecutors following the investigation[9].
George Călin took the photo used in this article[10]. The source of the photo is Inquam Photos.
In conclusion, the Snoop investigation catalysed official and social action against Marius Pieleanu for sexual abuse allegations spanning decades, culminating in his departure from SNSPA and ongoing demands for further investigation[1][4][5]. The case serves as a stark reminder of the need for transparency and accountability in academic and professional settings.
[1] Snoop.ro, "Sociologist Marius Pieleanu under investigation for sexual abuse," August 2025. [2] Romania-Insider.com, "Students protest at SNSPA over sexual abuse allegations," August 2025. [3] Adevarul.ro, "Calls for accountability as SNSPA professor Marius Pieleanu accused of sexual abuse," August 2025. [4] President Nicușor Dan's official statement, August 2025. [5] Snoop.ro, "Three women accuse Marius Pieleanu of sexual abuse," August 2025. [6] Snoop.ro, "Investigation reveals pressures felt by individuals on SNSPA premises," August 2025. [7] Snoop.ro, "Women describe being locked in Marius Pieleanu's office for several hours," August 2025. [8] Snoop.ro, "Marius Pieleanu threatens Snoop with lawsuit over sexual abuse allegations," August 2025. [9] Snoop.ro, "Professor Alfred Bulai detained following SNSPA sexual abuse investigation," July 2024. [10] Inquam Photos, "Photo credit for the image used in this article," August 2025.
- As the investigation by Snoop journalists revealed, the general-news story involving Romanian sociologist Marius Pieleanu extends beyond his academic career at the National School of Political and Administrative Studies (SNSPA), delving into crime-and-justice matters related to decades-old sexual abuse allegations.
- Following the Snoop investigation and termination of Marius Pieleanu's contract at SNSPA, there has been a surge in political discussions, with high-profile figures such as President Nicușor Dan advocating for a commission of inquiry and ongoing public calls for accountability, underscoring the need for transparency in crime-and-justice issues as well as general-news coverage.
