In the referendum on Sunday 20 October, Moldovans will be asked whether they support constitutional changes that will pave the way for the country to eventually join the European Union. The European Greens announced their full support for the people of Moldova desiring to join the EU, and warned of threats of Russian interference.
Partidul Verde Ecologist, the Moldovan party that is a member of the European Greens, is also calling for a “yes” vote in the referendum.
The pro-European President Maia Sandu is also seeking re-election this Sunday. Russia tries to meddle in both elections. In June, the United States, Britain and Canada said Moscow was trying to interfere in Moldovan politics. There are credible reports that Russia has spent more than 100 million euros to influence the vote.
“Russia’s blatant interference threatens not only Moldova’s sovereignty, but also democratic values in the whole region,” said Thomas Waitz, co-chair of the European Greens: “Moldovans have consistently shown their commitment to a European future, despite Russia’s relentless efforts to destabilise the country. The EU must stand by Moldova and ensure that its democratic institutions are protected from external manipulation.”
European Green co-chair Mélanie Vogel added: “The people of Moldova deserve the right to determine their own future, free from foreign interference. The European Greens will continue to support Moldova on its path towards the European Union”.
Already in June 2022, the European Green Party and its member parties adopted a resolution in favour of the enlargement process towards Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia. The European Greens consistently supported the European Commission’s decision to open accession negotiations with Moldova in November 2023.