In conditions of hybrid war, with many elements of pro-Russian influence, organizing a referendum on Moldova’s European integration poses a number of risks, said former Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration Tudor Ulianovschi. According to him, the idea of a referendum is not bad, but such a democratic exercise should be organized at the end of accession negotiations, when society fully feels the advantages of the rapprochement with the European Union, IPN reports.
The diplomat noted that most of the European states organized a referendum before joining the European Union, but such an exercise is appropriate at the end of accession negotiations.
“The idea of holding a referendum is generally not a bad one. But we must be responsible when we launch such a democratic exercise because there are certain risks. For what purpose is this referendum held? Its organization, taking into account previous calculations, will cost about 80 million lei, even if it will take place simultaneously with the presidential election. Of course, those with pro-European and pro-Western views, like me, will not be against such an exercise. But a question arises, for whose benefit is this referendum held? For the benefit of citizens or for the benefit of a party idea, for electoral purposes?” Tudor Ulianovschi stated in the program “Resumé” on RliveTV channel.
According to the diplomat, given that society still does not fully feel the benefits of the opening of accession negotiations, a referendum would only encourage pro-Russian politicians to promote Euroscepticism.
“We are in a hybrid warfare situation with many elements of foreign influence and this poses a risk. Even if citizens vote 55% to 45% in favor of integration or 60% to 40%, we should first pass the psychological limit, when the population of the Republic of Moldova already sees the benefits in their pockets, in agriculture, education, social and medical spheres. But when you raise salaries of ministers by 50% and in education you do not, and then you invite the people to vote, this is risky. You either prepare the ground or take the risks. In my opinion, this exercise is not appropriate for now because there is a risk that the alert level of Russian agents, who are against the Government and the Republic of Moldova, will be raised so as to create diversions,” noted Tudor Ulianovschi.
In December 2023, President Maia Sandu proposed holding a referendum on Moldova’s accession to the European Union. Subsequently, Parliament amended the electoral legislation so that the referendum could be held concurrently with the presidential election.
