Category:
Brief and Analyses
Moldova's EU Referendum A Deep Dive into the Factors Shaping Citizens' Views on EU Integration
10 January 2025
Moldova’s narrow constitutional referendum result on EU accession reveals deep polarization rooted in its historical East-West divide and ongoing geopolitical and domestic pressures. The brief by Agnesa Jashari examines factors shaping public opinion on EU integration, including domestic political dynamics, low trust in institutions, and Russian influence. It discusses how the Russian invasion of Ukraine has accelerated Moldova's EU candidacy and the EU’s role in supporting Moldova through economic aid, strategic agreements, and fostering public support. Finally, it offers recommendations for the EU to sustain Moldova's integration process and address challenges in the broader enlargement context.