The referendum on Moldova’s accession to the European Union, scheduled for the fall of 2024, may pass with problems. Many citizens working abroad may be inactive at polling stations. It was stated by Sorin Ionita, executive director of Expert Forum, on the program “Realitatea te priveste” on RLIVE.
According to him, the ruling party has an important and difficult task to convince the diaspora to support the European vector.
“Moldova has already determined its path. It is clear to the majority of the population, which actively expresses its position. However, there may be problems in translating this support into votes. In the upcoming referendum, these difficulties will become evident.
Suppose the minimum percentage of citizens who must vote in the referendum is 33%. However, many of these citizens live abroad and will not be able to vote in person. Even if these citizens voted and accounted for 33% of the total vote, this would still be less than if they were in the country and voting. For a referendum to be valid, 50% or even more of the citizens in Moldova would have to be in favor of joining the European Union.
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A number of those who could have voted live abroad. They may not want to participate in the election. At the same time, there are citizens in the country who may have different views on joining the EU – some may be against the idea. Despite this, many Transnistrian residents aspire to European standards because it is to Europe that they send their goods for export,” Ionita said.
In February, Moldovan President Maia Sandu held consultations with several parties on a referendum on EU accession. Representatives of 14 political parties participated in the talks. They expressed support for the referendum. The referendum is scheduled to be held on the day of the presidential election in October 2024.