Polarization in Moldovan society is the result not only of the national players, but also of the interference from outside the country. The level of polarization in the future is not expected to decrease in Moldova. Regrettably, Moldova experiences foreign interference that amplifies polarization and destabilizes internal views, considers the director of the Resource Center for Human Rights (CREDO) Sergiu Ostaf.
In the public debate “Broad consensus in Moldovan society: necessity and possibility”, staged by IPN News Agency and Radio Moldova, Sergiu Ostaf said the notion of a broad consensus recommended by the Venice Commission refers to the creation of a communication space that would contribute to finishing a process. “The building of a consensus is a constant negotiation process. It is important for the sides that want to reach or to build a consensus to become involved in this process,” he stated.
According to Sergiu Ostaf, the consensus meant by the Venice Commission should embrace the whole society, all the proposals and recommendations and all players concerned. “An electoral system is actually an element in the achievement of an objective. Any electoral system should be built so as to meet important challenges. Everyone discusses the electoral system, but they do not see what objective could be actually achieved. I think the objective is to make sure that a government able to rule is chosen,” stated the CREDO director.
Sergiu Ostaf noted that no broad consensus was ever reached in the Republic of Moldova on such issues because the polarization level is very high. “I consider a number of parties that now refuse to take part in debates should become involved in these. When showing benevolence and good faith when discussing such issues, the position of these parties becomes more legitimate,” he said.
According to Sergiu Ostaf, each political player should show readiness to negotiate and look for solutions. If a series of political parties do not contribute to achieving a consensus, an electoral system that does not represent them will be adopted. If parliamentary elections are held according to the new system, there is a major risk that this process will not be recognized.
“The risk is big and forces that continue to polarize society could put it to good use. I think a harsh assessment is needed here. If the subject of lack of a consensus can have a particular impact on the legitimacy of the elections of 2018, which is the highest price we are ready to pay as a country? Some players probably do not want to think about this,” said Sergiu Ostaf.
The public debate “Broad consensus in Moldovan society: necessity and possibility” is the 74th installment of the series of debates “Developing political culture by public debates” that are organized with support from the Hanns Seidel Foundation of Germany.
