The Republic of Moldova as a European Union candidate state: developments and prospects for integration [Articol]

Abstract

The Republic of Moldova’s trajectory toward European integration has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, culminating in the formal recognition of its EU candidate status in June 2022. This scientific article examines the key political, institutional, and societal developments that have shaped Moldova’s candidacy, with a focus on the evolving domestic and external dynamics that influence the country’s accession prospects. Drawing on EU enlargement theory, the study analyzes the impact of conditionality, alignment with the EU acquis, and reforms in governance, rule of law, and democratic institutions. It further assesses the effectiveness of the EU’s enlargement instruments and the European Commission’s monitoring mechanisms in incentivizing compliance and sustaining reform momentum. Special attention is given to domestic political will, civil society participation, and societal support for European integration as key determinants of success. By synthesizing recent trends and policy developments, the article identifies both developments and tendencies on Moldova’s European path. The study concludes that Moldova’s future in the European Union depends on sustained reform implementation, strategic EU engagement, and the resilience of democratic institutions in a volatile regional context.