Columbia International Affairs Online: Policy Briefs

CIAO DATE: 05/2010

Integration Reloaded: Streamlining Moldova's European Course

Stanislav Secrieru

March 2006

Finnish Institute for International Affairs

Abstract

In 2009, against all expectations, Moldova managed to shake off its inertia in an effort to leave behind zigzagging reforms and set itself on course for European integration. Although the European option enjoys overwhelming support in Moldova, the experiences of the eu’s latest newcomers have shown that aspirations only materialize if you are prepared to do the necessary homework. Is there enough political will and ability to implement reforms in Moldova? What has the new government done so far, domestically and externally, to bring Moldova closer to the EU? What are the obstacles that could hinder reforms in Moldova? How could the EU help to bring about change, accelerating Moldova's Europeanization?