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| Dorina Baltag | |
The European Union (EU) has long been a beacon of stability, prosperity, and cooperation in Europe, offering its member states and neighboring countries unparalleled opportunities for growth and development. Moldova, a small but strategically significant country, has increasingly benefited from its relationship with the EU, especially in the face of escalating challenges. As the EU continues to expand its influence, it has provided Moldova with crucial support—both economic and strategic—helping the country navigate turbulent times and laying the groundwork for its future integration into the European community. As Moldova prepares for a referendum on European integration, it is crucial to address the disinformation spread by europhobic groups regarding the EU's functioning and the benefits of membership. In this critical juncture, it is important to understand what the European Union is through its achievements and what it has offered Moldova thus far.
The European Union: a profile
The European Union (EU) stands as one of the most remarkable political and economic achievements of the modern era. Since its inception in 1957, the EU has significantly contributed to the stability, prosperity, and well-being of its citizens and beyond. One of the EU's most notable accomplishments is maintaining peace on a continent once ravaged by wars. In 2012, the EU was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for its achievements in this field. The EU’s common foreign & security policy is designed to resolve conflicts and promote international understanding, based on diplomacy and respect for international rules.
Largest single market and trading bloc
The EU also boasts the world’s largest single market, which drives its economy by facilitating the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people. Over 340 million EU citizens use the euro, which has not only eliminated currency fluctuations but also strengthened the single market, reducing exchange costs and bolstering economic stability across the region. As the world's largest trade bloc, the EU plays a critical role in global commerce. It is the top exporter of manufactured goods and services and serves as the largest import market for over 100 countries. The EU's commitment to free trade is a cornerstone of its economic policy, both within its borders and globally. In the realm of telecommunications, for example, the EU has eradicated roaming charges, allowing its citizens to use their phones and online services across the EU without extra costs.
Luxury to live, work, and study anywhere
Through the establishment of a common market and the promotion of free movement, the EU has allowed its citizens to live, work, and study anywhere within its member states. This freedom of movement extends to employment, social security, and taxation, ensuring that EU nationals receive equal treatment across all member countries.
Thanks to the Schengen Agreement, border controls have been abolished between 16 European countries, enabling citizens to cross borders without showing a passport or ID. The Erasmus+ programme exemplifies the EU's commitment to education and cultural exchange. It allows young Europeans to study, train, volunteer, or participate in exchange programmes in 33 countries both within and outside of Europe, enriching their academic and professional experiences. Relocating to another EU country is straightforward for EU citizens. In addition to the right to live anywhere within the EU, citizens are assured access to basic internet connections and public health services under the same conditions as local residents. This freedom of residence is a key component of the EU's commitment to enhancing the quality of life for all its citizens.
Leader in environmental protection and humanitarian aid
The EU is also a leader in environmental protection, having established some of the strictest environmental standards in the world. The Union is actively working to combat climate change, aiming to become climate neutral by 2050. The EU met its 2020 goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 20% as early as 2014, demonstrating its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. Beyond its economic and environmental efforts, the EU is a global leader in humanitarian assistance. It is the world’s largest donor of humanitarian aid, providing vital resources like food, shelter, healthcare, and clean water to over 120 million people in more than 80 countries annually. In 2023, the EU's humanitarian budget exceeded €2.4 billion, underscoring its dedication to helping those in need during crises.
How has Moldova benefited so far from the EU?
Since the onset of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, Moldova has faced numerous challenges, including an influx of refugees, inflation, energy supply threats, airspace violations, and various hybrid actions such as disinformation and cyber-attacks. In recognition of these difficulties, the European Union (EU) has significantly strengthened its support for Moldova, bringing the country closer to the EU and helping it navigate these complex issues.
Financial Support and Investment
To address the impact of Russia’s aggression and support Moldova’s integration into the EU, President Ursula von der Leyen announced a comprehensive Support Package for Moldova on 28 June 2023. This package focuses on five priorities, all aimed at bolstering Moldova’s resilience. Since 2021, the EU has provided Moldova with €2.2 billion in loans and grants through various financial instruments, including direct budget support, macro-financial assistance, and EU-backed projects with international financial institutions.
The Economic and Investment Plan (EIP) for the Eastern Partnership in Moldova, launched in 2021, has also been instrumental in transforming policy priorities into impactful investment projects. Under the EIP, the EU has mobilized €1.5 billion in cooperation with international financial institutions, funding flagship projects that have significantly benefited Moldova’s economy, communities, and citizens.
Enhancing Peace and Security
Moldova's security has been a top priority for the EU. The High-Level Political and Security Dialogue has guided targeted actions to enhance Moldova’s defense and internal security. Through initiatives such as the EU Partnership Mission to Moldova, the EU-Moldova Support Hub for Internal Security and Border Management, and the European Peace Facility, the EU has provided critical support, including €128 million in non-lethal aid for 2021-2024. Moreover, Moldova has strengthened its cooperation with European agencies like Frontex, Europol, Eurojust, and CEPOL to further bolster its security.
Trade and Economic Growth
Moldova's economy has significantly benefited from its Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (DCFTA) with the EU, in effect since 2016. This agreement has facilitated reduced or eliminated tariffs, expanded the services market, and improved investment conditions. The EU is now Moldova's largest trade partner, accounting for 53.7% of its total trade in 2023. Notably, 65.4% of Moldovan exports are destined for the EU market, reflecting the growing importance of European markets for Moldovan businesses.
The number of Moldovan companies exporting to the EU has steadily increased, rising from 1,243 in 2015 to 1,825 in 2023. This trend highlights the natural interest and reliance of Moldovan businesses on the European market. Additionally, the EU has supported Moldova’s participation in the EU-Ukraine Solidarity Lanes initiative, which ensures secure supply chains and food security. Recent EU grants, including €12 million for the renovation of Moldova's North-South rail corridor and nearly €45 million under the Connecting Europe Facility for Transport, have further strengthened Moldova’s transport connections with the EU.
Educational Opportunities
Education has been another area where Moldova has reaped substantial benefits from its relationship with the EU. Through the Erasmus+ programme, Moldovan students and academic staff have gained access to international credit mobility opportunities at European universities. Between 2014 and 2023, more than 3,300 Moldovan students and staff participated in Erasmus+ mobility projects, while 40 students earned Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree scholarships. Moreover, over 4,600 young people and youth workers from Moldova took part in Erasmus+ Youth projects from 2014-2020, engaging in exchanges, trainings, policy debates, and volunteering. These educational and cultural exchanges have enriched the lives of Moldovan youth, fostering a deeper connection with Europe and broadening their horizons.
Moldova's partnership with the European Union has proven to be a vital lifeline, especially during times of adversity. However, in the midst of an information war, Moldova's European future cannot be left solely to political debates and competition; it requires the active involvement of every citizen. It is essential that citizens understand what the EU offers before drawing conclusions. The EU's unwavering commitment to Moldova’s security, economic growth, and educational development has not only strengthened the country's resilience but has also brought it closer to realizing its European aspirations. As Moldova continues to face complex challenges, the support and solidarity of the EU will undoubtedly remain a cornerstone of its progress, paving the way for a more secure, prosperous, and integrated future within the European family.
IPN publishes in the Op-Ed rubric opinion pieces submitted by authors not affiliated with our editorial board. The opinions expressed in these articles do not necessarily coincide with the opinions of our editorial board.