Publication

This paper describes the political crisis which emerged in Moldova over the spring and summer of 2009 against the background of the deeper political and social processes which have been occurring since 2001. The first part of the study describes the evolution of the Moldovan political system under former president Vladimir Voronin, characterized as an autocracy with a democratic façade. The second part examines Moldova's relations with three key external actors: the EU, Russia and Romania. It shows how Voronin's tactical moves led to a division between the regime and society.