The phrase "draconian changes" refers to extremely harsh or strict measures being implemented. It suggests that the changes are severe and often come with severe consequences. Full definition
People have accepted draconian change in the past once their leaders have shown an understanding of the dangers and made a committment to eqalitarian sacrifice. (realclimate.org)
There's still more to do, but if draconian changes were slapped on the players (or collectively bargained with them, anyway) completely altering the game as we knew it last year, it would have been a mess. (sbnation.com)
Some unscrupulous scientists and politicians have been trying to convince young people that we never used to have bad weather, and that we can return to that state by making Draconian changes to our economy and lifestyle. (dotearth.blogs.nytimes.com)