Clear victory reshapes Moldova’s political landscape
The Central Election Commission reported a decisive win for the pro-European Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS) in Moldova’s national vote. After counting all districts, PAS held 50.2% of the votes, securing an absolute majority in parliament. The Patriotic Block, a pro-Russian coalition led by former president Igor Dodon, trailed in second place with about 24.2% of ballots. The result signals a strong mandate for PAS to push its reform agenda and EU accession plans without needing a coalition partner.
What the result means for Maia Sandu and Moldova’s EU bid
President Maia Sandu, who has consistently championed closer ties with the European Union, framed the election as a test of Moldova’s direction. She has previously accused Moscow of trying to influence the vote, arguing that Russian actors sought to sway the outcome in favor of a more Russia-aligned government. With PAS holding a solid majority, the government can advance its EU-path and structural reforms with greater political certainty, though it will still face domestic challenges and opposition voices.
Implications for domestic policy
An absolute majority typically enables faster passage of legislation around judicial reform, anti-corruption measures, and economic modernization—areas often tied to Moldova’s bid for EU accession. PAS’s leadership is expected to push forward on governance improvements, market liberalization, and strengthening institutions that were previously under scrutiny. Yet governing without coalition partners may also intensify scrutiny from opponents and civil society that demand continued transparency and accountability.
Regional reactions and international context
The result reverberates beyond Chisinau. European Union officials welcomed a clear pro-European mandate as a positive signal in a region where Moscow’s influence remains a geopolitical factor. In Moscow, supporters of the Patriotic Block warned of potential volatility, arguing that Moldova must balance its security and economic interests while navigating external pressures. Neighboring states and international players will watch Moldova’s next moves closely, assessing how the new government engages with pro-Russian factions, energy dependencies, and regional security concerns.
Looking ahead: what comes next for Moldova
With an outright majority, PAS will likely set a have-ahead timetable for domestic reforms, EU-aligned policy changes, and negotiations linked to candidate status or integration steps with the EU. The administration will need to maintain momentum on anti-corruption prosecutions, judiciary modernization, and the rule of law—policy areas that underpin Moldova’s European aspirations. At the same time, it must manage domestic dissent and ensure inclusive governance that sustains public support for a pro-European trajectory in the months to come.
