President Sandu says citizens choose Moldova’s EU path before election.

Post by : Monika

Photo:Reuters

Moldova’s President, Maia Sandu, has given an important message to her people. She said that the future of Moldova, especially its path toward joining the European Union (EU), depends on how people vote in the upcoming September election. Sandu believes this election will decide whether Moldova becomes a full EU member by the year 2030.

1. Why This Election Is Important
Moldova is a small country located between Ukraine and Romania. It is one of the least wealthy countries in Europe. The government officially started talks to join the EU in June 2024. President Sandu and her political group, the Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS), want to stay in power so they can continue making changes that bring the country closer to EU standards.

Last year, in October 2024, Moldovan voters went to the polls to vote in a referendum. This vote asked whether Moldova should officially write the goal of joining the EU into the national constitution. The result was close—just over 50% voted “yes.” That narrow result showed that people in the country are still split on which direction Moldova should take.

2. Strong Opposition from Pro-Russian Parties
President Sandu and her party are facing strong opposition from a rival political group known as the Socialist Party, which supports closer ties with Russia. Sandu barely won her last presidential election, and the next election is shaping up to be another close one.

Sandu warned that if voters do not make the right choice in September, the country’s journey toward becoming a full EU member might stop. She said, “Prosperity and peace do not come on their own. We must choose the right path. If we stay united, we can keep moving forward. But if we stop now, we risk losing everything.”

3. Historic Visit from European Leaders
In the weeks before the election, top leaders from the European Union visited Moldova for the first time to show support. This special meeting was held in Chișinău, the capital city. Among the visitors were the heads of the European Commission and the European Council.

These leaders praised Moldova for the hard work it has done to fight corruption and improve the legal system. They said Moldova is ready to take the next steps toward EU membership.

During the visit, the EU promised to give Moldova €270 million (around $318 million) as part of a new support package. Also, a new deal was signed so that Moldovans can now use their mobile phones across EU countries without paying extra for roaming. This will make it easier for families and businesses to stay connected.

4. What Moldova Could Gain or Lose
Reforms and Justice: Moldova has worked hard to fix its justice system and fight corruption.

Security Threats: Russian groups have tried to spread false information to damage Moldova’s chances of joining the EU. Russia also stopped sending gas to the Transnistria region, which created more pressure.

Financial Help: The EU has promised up to €1.9 billion in aid by the year 2027. The first part of this money, the €270 million, will help rebuild hospitals, fix heating systems, and lower household energy costs.

5. What Challenges Remain?
Even though Moldova is now officially a candidate to join the EU, full membership requires agreement from every country in the EU. Hungary, one EU member, has been blocking Ukraine’s membership process. Some fear that Hungary might do the same with Moldova.

Still, most EU leaders say they want to move forward with both Ukraine and Moldova. They believe it is important to support both countries, especially as they face growing pressure from Russia.

6. What Will Happen After the Election?
If PAS Wins: They can continue making the changes needed for EU membership.

If No Party Wins a Majority: Different parties will have to work together and form a new government. Sandu’s party hopes to join with other groups that also want to join the EU.

If Pro-Russian Parties Win: Moldova could change direction and start building closer ties with Russia again. This might stop the reforms and delay or block Moldova’s EU plans.

7. Why This Matters to Ordinary People
For Young People: Joining the EU could bring better job opportunities, better education choices, and easier travel across Europe.

For Workers: EU membership may improve working conditions, raise wages, and boost the economy.

For the Country: Being part of the EU can help Moldova stay safe and free from outside interference.

President Sandu’s message is clear: Moldova’s future is in the hands of its people. The election in September is not just about choosing leaders. It’s about choosing whether Moldova becomes part of the European family or turns back toward the past.

This is a turning point in Moldova’s history. The results of this vote will shape the country’s path for many years to come. Every vote matters. Every decision counts.

And most importantly, the people of Moldova now have the power to choose their future.