Moldova has vividly regressed with respect to abidance by democratic principles, especially those concerning transparency in decision making. This is the opinion of Promo-LEX president Ion Manole, who was requested by IPN to highlight the most relevant events and actions that have strengthened or, conversely, harmed the democratic principles, independence, and rule of law in Moldova since the previous National Independence Day.

According to Ion Manole, the change in the electoral system, without addressing the issues identified by the Promo-LEX Observation Mission, as well as the Constitutional Court, along with the speedy adoption of certain laws, ignoring the recommendations of the Venice Commission, were all actions that have generated criticism from within the country, and from development partners.

The Promo-LEX president adds that in 2018 Moldova has almost completely dropped the Eastern Partnership “success story” label, which will cost the country greatly in terms of development rate, in both short and medium terms. Certainly, the invalidation of the mandate of the Chișinău mayor will have the most negative consequences for the rule of law and for public trust in its values.