The stakes are very high for the Moldovan citizens in relation to upholding democratic standards and strengthening the rule of law, in line with the country’s commitments under the Association Agreement as the framework of its relations with the EU. The importance of the upcoming presidential elections was underlined by Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia and Sweden, IPN reports.

A statement published by the Embassy of Romania in Moldova says the conduct of elections in a credible, inclusive, and transparent manner, in line with international standards, is a crucial test for the respect of values that are the very basis of Moldova’s relationship with these countries. This is also key for the further development of the Republic of Moldova as a democratic country, and to consolidate its citizens’ trust in state institutions.

The signatory states call on authorities of the Republic of Moldova to implement fully and without further delay the recommendations of the Venice Commission and the OSCE/ODIHR final reports inter alia to guarantee the transparency of party and campaign financing. “All citizens should be able to cast their votes in safe conditions despite the Coronavirus pandemic.”

All political actors and state institutions are encouraged to contribute to an exemplary electoral process that the citizens of the Republic of Moldova deserve, free from the egregious practices of the past such as vote buying, misuse of administrative resources, pressure on local leaders and civil servants. “A level playing field for all candidates is essential, and it should extend to all relevant matters from registration, public financing, to equal access to the media with fair and unbiased presentation. The authorities have a duty towards their citizens to be pro-active, transparent and effective also when dealing with complaints or electoral disputes.”

The signatories also call on the authorities of the Republic of Moldova to facilitate the unhindered work of international and domestic election observers for the sake of well-documented and credible elections. It is particularly important to ensure the safety of voters and observers with regard to the Coronavirus pandemic by appropriate mitigation measures.

The signatory states emphasize their support both for the Republic of Moldova and its citizens in their efforts to strengthen democratic institutions and for the people of the Republic of Moldova to express their will in free and fair elections.