In October, Moldovans will head to the polls to decide on a critical national issue: whether to amend the Constitution to make European Union (EU) membership a constitutional goal. This referendum not only reflects the country's aspirations but also reveals the deep divisions within its borders. While many Moldovans support a European future, the Russia-leaning breakaway region of Transnistria poses a significant challenge to any pro-Western move.
Moldova at a Crossroads: EU Membership on the Table
The upcoming referendum, scheduled for October 20, is more than a political formality. It is a decision that could reshape Moldova’s future, aligning it more closely with the EU and potentially away from Russian influence. This vote comes at a critical time when Moldova, sandwiched between Romania and Ukraine, is facing multiple challenges, including economic struggles and the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Euronews reporter Hans von der Brelie recently traveled across Moldova to gauge public opinion on the upcoming referendum. He found a nation deeply divided: while many in the West are optimistic about EU membership, residents in the breakaway region of Transnistria, in the east, remain staunchly pro-Russian.
Economic Transformation: What EU Membership Could Mean for Moldovans
The economic potential of joining the EU is a key issue for many Moldovans. In the town of Ungheni, located near the Romanian border, there are signs of hope. Ghenadie Podgornii, technical director of the carpet manufacturing company Covoare Ungheni, believes that EU membership would remove bureaucratic barriers, making it easier to trade with the EU. Currently, 70% of their carpets are sold to EU clients.
Podgornii's optimism extends to Moldova’s workforce. He argues that EU membership could help stem the exodus of workers leaving Moldova for better opportunities in Europe: "To earn money, they are no longer obliged to leave to work abroad," he says, reflecting on his own 12-year stint working in Italy.
Other employees share this sentiment. Maria, a carpet weaver, believes that EU membership could raise salaries: "It is good to enter the European Union, because then the salaries will be higher." However, not everyone is convinced. Another employee expressed concerns that prices could increase if Moldova joins the EU.
Despite these concerns, Moldova is already seeing the benefits of EU assistance. Support from EU-funded programs has helped companies like Covoare Ungheni install solar panels, lowering their energy costs.
The Last Opportunity: Moldova’s Push Towards EU Integration
Entrepreneurs like Igor Golbian, owner of a bio-fruit and vegetable business, see the upcoming referendum as Moldova’s last chance to join the EU. Golbian has ambitious plans to export his products to Romania, Belgium, Germany, and the Netherlands but acknowledges the challenges of meeting EU regulations. For him, Moldova’s push towards European integration is vital: "This is our last chance to jump on the last wagon of this train running towards the European Union!"
However, the path to EU membership is long and uncertain. Even if Moldovans vote in favor of the constitutional amendment, the final decision rests with the 27 EU member states. And then there’s the issue of Transnistria, Moldova’s breakaway region.
The Frozen Conflict: Transnistria’s Stance on EU Membership
Transnistria, a narrow strip of land along Moldova’s eastern border with Ukraine, declared independence 34 years ago. Though not officially recognized by any country, including Russia, the region remains heavily influenced by Moscow. Around 2,000 Russian soldiers are stationed in Transnistria, and the region is economically reliant on free Russian gas.
Euronews reporter Hans von der Brelie visited the separatist capital, Tiraspol, to understand how people there view Moldova's potential EU membership. Opinions were divided. Daria, a young resident, said she saw advantages for both Moldova and Transnistria: “That’s a good initiative and it would bring advantages for both.” However, Tatiana, an older woman, felt differently: “We are waiting for Russia. With Russia, our future will be better, beautiful, and most joyful!"
Economic relations between Moldova and Transnistria are tense. Moldova has started imposing taxes and fees on goods exported from Transnistria, a move seen by some as an attack on the region's economy. Sergei Obolnik, the so-called ‘economy minister’ of Transnistria, claims that Moldovan taxes have increased prices by up to 20%, making Transnistrian goods less competitive.
Transnistria’s heavy industry also faces the threat of losing access to Russian gas at the end of December, as the transit agreement with Ukraine is set to expire. If no alternative energy source is found, it could spell economic disaster for the region. Transnistria’s leaders have labeled Moldova’s actions as “aggression,” further deepening the divide between the two regions.
Moldova’s Government Perspective
In Chisinau, Moldova’s capital, the pro-European government is pressing ahead with preparations for deeper integration into the EU’s internal market. Deputy Prime Minister Dumitru Alaiba is focused on ensuring Moldova’s economy aligns with EU standards. However, when asked about the impact of EU membership on Transnistria, he admitted that the integration process could exacerbate tensions with the breakaway region.
A Referendum with Far-reaching Implications
Moldova’s October referendum on EU membership is more than a vote on constitutional reform. It represents a choice between two futures: one aligned with the European Union and the other tied to Russia. While many Moldovans hope that EU membership will bring economic stability and a brighter future, the issue of Transnistria remains a significant obstacle. As Moldova moves towards the EU, the risk of conflict with the breakaway region grows, potentially dragging the country into further turmoil.
Source: Euronews
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