Against the background of the Russian Federation’s ongoing aggressive war in Ukraine, Moldova mobilized its efforts to reform the security and defense sector, where the important role of the European Union was highlighted, Elena Marzac, executive director of the Platform for Security and Defense Initiatives, stated at a press conference hosted by IPN, where Moldova’s progress in the Eastern Partnership 2023 was presented.
According to Elena Marzac, this Eastern Partnership format had, first of all, the objective of promoting democratic, European values, stability, security and to establish a security zone that would resist the danger coming from the Russian Federation. The Eastern Partnership created the basis for countries to develop towards European integration. This format also covered security topics, even if they were not directly stipulated.
The executive director of the Platform for Security and Defense Initiatives believes that due to the bravery of the Ukrainians, but also to the West’ assistance in dealing with the Russian aggression, Moldova is no longer facing this hybrid attack of the Russian Federation. The expert highlighted the importance of the cooperation between the European Union and the Eastern Partnership countries in countering the Russian Federation’s hybrid threats to which all countries except Belarus are subject.
Elena Marzac noted that the European Union has manifested itself as a security provider the past year. Success was achieved in advancing border management with the EU’s help. Development strategies in the field of home affairs have been developed and resilience to the refugee crisis has been ensured with the assistance of the EU.
In terms of security policy, the Republic of Moldova committed itself to and understood the importance of reforming the sector. The defense budget was raised. Military diplomacy has advanced and investments have been attracted to the field. Also, a strategic communication and disinformation center was opened and its work will be supported by the European Union mission that was specially created to help Moldova build security resilience.
Elena Marzac noted the importance of Moldova’s accession to the Southeastern Europe Defense Ministerial, which will mean that Moldova will contribute to regional security with concrete steps. Security and defense are an important area despite the events that are taking place. These topics have an important role to play in the EU Accession Plan, which is commendable.
Mark Mazureanu, expert of ASIST Analytics Association, said that since 2000 until now, Moldova has witnessed a continuous transition process from a state without civil society to a state with advanced civil society. Therefore, throughout the years, the EU has tended to strengthen civil society organizations in all sectors, so that they are able to work as partners with the state so as to provide particular services and not only.
The expert also said that during the last few years, the West has intensified its relations with civil society. An organization working under European institutions, the Civic Forum, was created several years ago and all civic organizations from other states form part of this. These are consulted by European institutions directly.
Mark Mazureanu noted that civil society in Moldova is the supplier of political elite because the political elite is 80% the product of civil society.
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