On Sunday, September 28, parliamentary elections began in Moldova, seen as decisive for shaping the country’s future political course. This year’s vote is taking place amid unprecedented attempts by Russia to influence the outcome, making it one of the most closely watched elections in recent years, reports Baltimore Chronicle citing BBC.
Observers both inside and outside the country note that Moldovans are effectively choosing between two paths — a pro-European course or alignment with Russia. However, opposition parties built their campaigns around the idea of neutrality, insisting that deeper integration with Europe could lead to Moldova being dragged into an armed conflict on one side of the geopolitical divide.
The elections will determine the composition of the 101-seat parliament, which will steer the country’s policies for the next four years. As a parliamentary republic, Moldova’s legislature plays a central role in decision-making and in the formation of the government.
A minimum of 51 seats is required to secure a majority. The vote is conducted on a proportional basis: political parties must pass a 5% threshold, while electoral blocs are required to obtain at least 7% of the vote.
These elections mark the first large-scale campaign since last year’s presidential race and the referendum on joining the European Union. Both events ended in victory for pro-European forces led by President Maia Sandu, significantly strengthening the position of the pro-EU camp in Moldova.
Earlier we wrote that Moldova bars russian athletes from European Kickboxing Championship.
