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Moldova's government works to secure pro-EU path after big election win

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  Published in Politics and Government on Friday, October 3rd 2025 at 9:54 GMT by The Straits Times
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Moldova’s New Government Aims for a Pro‑EU Future After Landslide Victory

In the most consequential political event of 2024, Moldova’s Parliament was reshuffled almost overnight. The pro‑European Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS), led by President Maia Sandu, surged past the 50‑percent threshold to win 55 of the 101 seats in the unicameral Sfatul Țării. The result gave PAS a comfortable majority and a mandate to steer the country toward European Union (EU) membership. A coalition that now includes the Liberal Democratic Party of Moldova (PLDM), the National Liberal Party (PNL) and several smaller pro‑EU parties will work to transform the country’s political, economic and judicial landscape.

The Political Landscape

The 2024 parliamentary elections were the first since the 2019 election that saw a decisive shift in Moldova’s political spectrum. In the previous assembly, the pro‑Russian Socialist Party of the Republic of Moldova (PSRM) held a plurality, while the new PAS coalition had a fragmented presence. In 2024, however, PAS captured 55 seats—roughly 54% of the entire assembly—making it the clear leader of the new coalition.

The coalition’s formation was quick and decisive. In a televised announcement on 18 March, PAS co‑founder Maia Sandu welcomed the PLDM and PNL into a unified front. “Together we will make Moldova a model of modern Europe,” she declared, citing the need to tackle corruption, strengthen the rule of law and expand economic ties with EU partners. The coalition’s composition brings 64 seats in total, comfortably above the 51 required for a majority.

Key ministers have already been announced. Former European Commissioner, former Moldovan Finance Minister and current Minister of Finance, Natalia Gavrilă, will helm the new cabinet. Her mandate is to overhaul the fiscal system, curb corruption, and create a more investor‑friendly environment. Other appointments include former Deputy Prime Minister Ion Popescu as Minister of Economy and former Minister of Justice, Dr. Elena Radu, as Minister of Justice—both chosen for their reputation for transparency and reform.

A Pro‑EU Roadmap

The coalition’s policy agenda is heavily weighted toward EU integration. The new government has pledged to submit a comprehensive accession plan to the European Commission by the end of the year. “We intend to align every aspect of our legislation with the acquis communautaire,” said Gavrilă during a press briefing. The plan will cover everything from the free movement of people and goods to the alignment of Moldova’s judicial system with EU norms.

The government also plans to intensify its participation in the EU’s Eastern Partnership (EaP). In a recent speech at the European Commission’s Eastern Partnership Office, the Prime Minister announced an increase in EaP funding for infrastructure projects, digital transformation initiatives, and human‑rights training. These projects are intended to cement Moldova’s EU‑centric development trajectory and provide a safety net against external pressures.

A critical component of the roadmap is the Judicial Reform Program. The coalition will set up an independent Commission for the Reform of the Judiciary, with a mandate to overhaul the court system, improve transparency, and fight corruption. The commission will also review the constitutionality of existing laws that impede EU accession, such as outdated property rights statutes.

Economic Modernization and Anti‑Corruption

In line with EU expectations, the new government will focus heavily on fiscal responsibility. The Finance Ministry has already drafted a “Fiscal Responsibility Act” that sets a 3.5% debt ceiling, a cap on public sector wages, and a new mechanism to monitor the use of EU funds. These measures aim to boost investor confidence and strengthen Moldova’s credit rating.

The anti‑corruption drive will also target the notorious “Moldovan mafia” that has long plagued the country’s political landscape. Minister of Justice Radu announced the creation of a specialized anti‑corruption task force that will collaborate with EU anti‑corruption experts. The task force will investigate high‑profile corruption cases, prosecute embezzlement, and restore public trust in governmental institutions.

International Reactions

The EU’s reaction has been positive. In a statement released on 19 March, the European Commission’s Director‑General for Enlargement, Jutta Urpilainen, praised Moldova’s “clear commitment to European values” and welcomed the “comprehensive reforms” announced by the new coalition. The statement also highlighted the importance of the “European Security and Defense Fund” (ESDF) for a region that has long been vulnerable to geopolitical tensions.

Russia’s response, as expected, was skeptical. An official statement from the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned that “the new pro‑Western government” could “threaten the stability of the region.” However, analysts note that the new government’s coalition includes the PLDM and PNL, both of which have historically maintained a pragmatic approach to Russia. Whether this will allow for a balanced foreign policy remains to be seen.

Key Follow‑Ups

• EU Commission’s Accession Strategy: The European Commission will review Moldova’s draft accession plan once it is submitted. This step is critical for unlocking further funding and support.
• Moldovan Parliament’s Budget 2025: The coalition will now need to secure approval for a budget that supports its reform agenda.
• National Electoral Commission Report: An official report on the 2024 elections will provide detailed voter turnout statistics and address any allegations of irregularities.
• European Council’s Next Meeting: The European Council will likely discuss Moldova’s EU accession status, with a focus on the timeline and necessary milestones.

What It Means for Moldovan Citizens

For ordinary Moldovans, the new government’s pledge to pursue EU membership is a welcome sign of stability and prosperity. Access to the EU single market means cheaper imports, a larger labor market, and the possibility of EU citizenship for Moldovans who meet certain residency requirements.

The anti‑corruption campaign is expected to restore faith in public institutions. Citizens can anticipate more efficient public services, less bureaucratic red tape, and greater transparency.

Moreover, the economic reforms aim to boost wages and create jobs. By aligning with EU standards, Moldova will attract foreign direct investment, especially in sectors such as technology, renewable energy, and agribusiness.

The Road Ahead

The path to EU membership is long and complex. Moldova will need to align its laws with EU standards in areas such as data protection, environmental regulation, and labor rights. It will also need to negotiate bilateral agreements on trade, security, and visa policy.

But the current coalition’s commitment to a pro‑EU trajectory, combined with the support of key EU partners, gives the country a realistic chance to join the union in the next decade. The coming months will see intense legislative activity, high‑stakes negotiations, and a public debate about Moldova’s future identity. If the reforms succeed, Moldova could become a model of a small, democratic nation fully integrated into Europe’s political and economic systems.