The Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomes the nationwide referendum held on 20 October in Moldova on amending the constitution to include a clause on Moldova’s course towards accession to the EU. According to provisional results reported by the Central Electoral Commission of Moldova, a little more than 50.4% of the referendum participants voted in favour of this historic choice (data for 99.5% polling sites as of 21 October, 14:30).
The outcome of the referendum has demonstrated support from the majority of Moldovan people for constitutionalizing a course towards the EU, thereby providing a mandate for further implementation of reforms necessary for Moldova’s integration into the EU regardless of political considerations. Latvia strongly supports the choice made by Moldovan citizens.
It is noteworthy that younger voters were also active in the referendum according to preliminary results: a turnout of 46.23% in the 18-25 age group and 48.58% in the 26-35 age group.
The referendum took place against the backdrop of Russia’s massive efforts to influence public opinions in Moldova through disinformation, manipulation and sabotage. Russia’s destructive interference in the domestic political processes of European countries has become particularly active following the outbreak of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine.
The referendum on amendments to the constitution of Moldova was held concurrently with the Moldovan presidential election, in which none of the candidates earned enough votes to win. The second round of election is scheduled for 3 November 2024.