Since taking office in 2020, Moldovan President Maia Sandu has been praised in Brussels as the embodiment of liberalism in a fragile post-Soviet Europe. However, her track record as a liberal President shows repeated failures, with Moldova’s institutions weakening under her leadership. Despite the rhetoric, there have been broken promises and a move towards authoritarianism, especially concerning the media.
Sandu’s promises of sweeping reforms and anti-corruption efforts have not materialized, with Moldovan institutions remaining corrupt or incompetent. Despite this, she is still seen as a strong ally against Russian influence, with the EU granting Moldova candidate status under her presidency. But beneath this facade of European approval lies undemocratic actions that go against the values she claims to uphold.
Under Sandu’s government, political opposition, media freedom, and civil liberties have been suppressed. She caused a constitutional crisis by ignoring Parliament’s choice for Prime Minister and instead pushing for her ally, leading to a snap election which her party won. Her administration’s actions, under the guise of combating corruption, have been criticized for echoing authoritarian tactics.
Her banning of opposition parties and legal battles raise concerns about her commitment to democratic principles. Despite her pro-European stance, Moldova still heavily depends on Russian energy sources. The Moldovan people, who seek reform and change, are at risk of being overlooked in the pursuit of political strategies.
Sandu’s dual image as a liberal champion and an enforcer of authoritarian policies is troubling. The EU must ensure that Moldova’s accession is contingent on genuine reforms to prevent further democratic backsliding. The true test of Sandu’s leadership lies in her adherence to democratic values in practice, not just in rhetoric.
Further Reading on E-International Relations
