President Maia Sandu asserts that the respect for the cultural identity of ethnic minorities and the sense of belonging to the Republic of Moldova are not contradictory. The statement was made at the National Forum of Ethnic Minorities 2026, where the head of state spoke about social cohesion, security risks, and European integration, reports IPN.
Maia Sandu emphasized that, in the context of the war in the region and attempts to divide society, it is important to strengthen trust among people and avoid hate speech. “There is no contradiction between respect for each person’s identity and the feeling of belonging to the country. We must respect each other, understand each other, listen to each other when we speak and not choose hate speech,” declared the president.
The head of state also spoke about security challenges, mentioning drone incidents in the localities of Etulia, Crocmaz and near the localities of Ceadar-Lunga and Valea Perjei. According to her, such risks target all citizens, regardless of the language spoken or the community they belong to.
Maia Sandu stated that joining the European Union would bring benefits to all citizens, including by enhancing security, economic opportunities, investments in infrastructure, and resources for protecting the cultural and linguistic identity of ethnic minorities.
At the same time, the president mentioned that the authorities must create conditions for each community to preserve its mother tongue, traditions, and culture. She highlighted the role of education and cultural events in bringing people closer together and strengthening social cohesion.
The National Forum of Ethnic Minorities 2026 gathered approximately 210 participants, including representatives of ethnocultural organizations, public authorities, civil society, and international partners. The event was organized by the Center for Civic Initiatives for National Minorities, in partnership with the Konrad Adenauer Foundation and the Soros Foundation Moldova.
