Work with citizens must be done much more actively, especially ahead of the upcoming electoral processes in the Republic of Moldova. This fact demonstrates once again, amidst the evident internal and external risks, the role of citizens in important moments related to the country’s European integration. In this connection, the support of society is needed and this is where the civic activism of each citizen and their involvement comes into play to ensure the fulfilment of the European aspirations of the Republic of Moldova, Natalia Stercul, executive director of the Foreign Policy Association (APE), stated in a public debate hosted by IPN News Agency.

She noted that in order to strengthen the importance and degree of involvement of each Moldovan citizen in the European integration process, it is necessary to communicate better and to assess the degree of preparation of society for these transformations. “On the other hand, the citizens are a force that can demonstrate not only willpower, but also civic stance. Here, too, as a result of the external risks faced by the Republic of Moldova, the citizens must be vigilant and not admit destabilizations, must take steps to ensure protection and prevent such risks, like the protests. As for the openness regarding the integration process, as strange as it may sound, this is possible only through communication and dialogue. As far as the civic involvement of citizens is concerned, it is an extremely important thing. And it is precisely in the context of European integration that it is important to understand and implement all the European principles, especially among the young people, because they are the future and they must not only understand what the EU means, but also get involved in all the processes that refer to the entry into the European community,” stated the APE executive director.

The synchronization of the activities of the public authorities with citizens’ European integration aspirations is a key factor, considers Natalia Stercul. “In cases where we talk about territorial delimitations, depending on political preferences, the struggle between pro-European and pro-Russian forces, it is very obviously difficult, as it is seen in district councils or local authorities that are pro-Russian, where Russian-speaking communities are concentrated, where mayors are with Eastern visions. Waiting for them to carry out a pro-European communication campaign seems a bit naïve to me because the persons promote not what they do not believe, but what they believe in. Whether they do it in a veiled or an open way is something else,” opined Natalia Stercul.

She also said that in order not to derail from the European path, the people must be aware of the real advantages of European integration. “This process provides enormous opportunities for every citizen, who will feel well-being, will be able to realize their potential and achieve only what brings them personal and economic satisfaction. The rapprochement with the EU also means systemic functioning of state institutions for the benefit of the citizen, emergence of employment opportunities in various fields, access to quality studies, which is a lot. In general, we are talking about a new stage of a high-quality life and offering of opportunities for citizens to benefit from these elements of well-being for themselves, but also for their families,” concluded Natalia Stercul.

The public debate entitled “Advantages and responsibilities of the citizen in strengthening the country’s European future” was the first installment of the project “Benefits of Moldova’s accession to the EU for people, community and country”, which is supported by Soros Foundation Moldova. The content of this debate does not represent the official position of Soros Foundation Moldova.