In a joint statement, the Commission and EU High Representative Josep Borrell say that Russia and its representatives have actively sought to undermine the democratic and electoral process in Moldavia.
However, the EU congratulates the Chisinau authorities on their successful organization of the elections and constitutional referendum.
“We welcome the results of the constitutional referendum, in which the people of Moldova expressed their desire to consolidate their future in the EU,” he said.
Moldovan authorities successfully conducted elections and a constitutional referendum, despite facing a hybrid war from Russia and its proxies.
We are committed to continuing to support #Moldaviathe country’s resilience, security and democracy on its path to EU membership.
– Josep Borrell Fontelles (@JosepBorrellF) October 21, 2024
In accordance with the findings and preliminary conclusions of the International Election Observation Mission of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) both voting procedures were conducted correctly. Candidates campaigned freely in an environment characterized by concerns about illegal foreign interference and active disinformation efforts, the European Commission and Josep Borel said in a statement.
Aim of ongoing ‘hybrid warfare’
They point out that law enforcement authorities, many international actors and civil society have declared that Moldova is the target of an ongoing “hybrid war”, directed from abroad and including various forms of manipulation to destabilize the country , illegal financial actors, disinformation campaigns and cyber attacks, according to the report published by the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR).
The EU will closely monitor developments during the second round of the presidential elections on 3 November and ahead of the 2025 legislative elections.
“We are committed to continuing to support Moldova’s democratic development, reforms and economic development, as well as to strengthening Moldova’s resilience, especially on its path to the European Union. The EU and Moldova share a common future”, he concludes the joint statement.
Source: AMPE