Channels and forms of foreign interference: a comparative analysis of democratic vulnerabilities in Moldova and Romania [Articol]

Abstract

This article examines the channels and forms of foreign interference that affect democratic systems in Moldova and Romania, two Eastern European states situated at the geopolitical intersection between the European Union and the Russian sphere of influence. Using a comparative approach, the study analyzes how structural vulnerabilities—such as media capture, political polarization, institutional fragility, and hybrid security threats—shape the exposure of both countries to external influence operations. The research maps four major interference channels: disinformation ecosystems, cyber operations, illicit political financing, and the instrumentalization of cultural, religious, and economic networks. While Romania benefits from EU and NATO membership, which provides stronger institutional resilience and security integration, Moldova remains more exposed due to unresolved territorial conflicts, energy dependence, and systemic weaknesses in governance. The findings highlight convergences and divergences in the two countries’ vulnerability profiles, identifying both shared risks and country-specific patterns. The article concludes by proposing policy recommendations for strengthening democratic resilience, including enhanced media literacy programs, cybersecurity capacity-building, transparent political financing mechanisms, and stronger regional cooperation within the EU and its neighbourhood.