Moldovan Parliament Registers Draft Decision for EU Integration Referendum in October 2024

The Moldovan Parliament has registered a draft decision to hold a referendum on the country's integration with the European Union on October 20, 2024. The referendum will allow Moldovan citizens to directly express their views on the issue of EU integration, which has been a key political and economic priority for the country. The move comes amid ongoing efforts by the Moldovan government to strengthen ties with the EU and pursue a pro-European agenda.

The referendum is expected to coincide with a new presidential election. Pro-European President Maia Sandu has made EU membership a cornerstone of her policies and has called for the referendum. Polls show Sandu with a significant lead over her main rival, former president Igor Dodon, who maintains close ties with Moscow. A majority of respondents in polls believe EU membership would improve Moldova's economic prospects, while a significant minority believe the opposite.

However, Dodon, the leader of the leftist opposition, has urged voters to boycott the referendum, claiming that Sandu is using it to boost her chances of re-election. Dodon believes Sandu's focus on the EU is harming Moldova's regional interests. Support for EU integration outside the capital is also less certain, as Sandu's party failed to win mayoral seats in the big cities in recent local elections.

Why this matters: The upcoming referendum on EU integration in Moldova will be a pivotal moment for the country's future direction and relationship with the European Union. The outcome will have significant implications for Moldova's political, economic, and geopolitical trajectory, as well as its ties with neighboring countries and major powers.

Parliament speaker Igor Grosu stated that the referendum is not the project of a single person or political party, but rather belongs to all citizens and is for future generations. He said it is a chance for Moldovans to "show loudly and clearly that we are Europeans." The EU has agreed to start membership talks with both Moldova and Ukraine. However, the opposition parties have announced that they will urge their supporters to boycott the referendum.

Key Takeaways

• Moldova to hold referendum on EU integration on Oct 20, 2024.
• Pro-EU President Sandu supports referendum, opposition leader Dodon opposes it.
• Referendum to coincide with presidential election, Sandu leads in polls.
• Majority of Moldovans believe EU membership would improve economy.
• EU has agreed to start membership talks with Moldova and Ukraine.