Moldova Parliamentary Elections 2025: Diaspora Postal Voting and Russian Interference Concerns

On September 28, parliamentary elections began in Moldova, in which citizens will elect 101 deputies for a four-year term. For the Moldovan diaspora, voting by mail is being introduced for the first time. According to NewsMaker, polling stations opened at 7:00 and will operate until 21:00 local time.

A total of 23 candidates are contesting: 15 parties, 4 blocs, and 4 independents. The lineup could determine the country’s course – whether toward close European integration or further cooperation with Russia.

For the elections to be considered valid, turnout must be at least one-third of eligible voters. Parties must surpass thresholds: 5% for parties, 7% for blocs, and 2% for independents.

Pre-election steps and decisions

On the eve, a first-ever demarche occurred: the bloc “National Union” (BUN) refused to participate in favor of the party “Action and Solidarity” (PAS). On September 26, the Central Election Commission cancelled the registration of the pro-Russia party “Great Moldova” and its candidates; the decision is being appealed.

President Maia Sandu has already voted. She said:

“voted for a parliament that can uphold peace, for a parliament that respects the Republic of Moldova and its citizens.”

It is also known that Moscow is trying to influence the elections. According to Sandu, Russia is preparing for unprecedented interference in the parliamentary elections. According to TV8, Russia is investing in several political tools to push its people into parliament and undermine democratic processes.

The president’s national security adviser Stanislav Sekrieru said that Russia is intensifying efforts toward Moldovan citizens abroad to try to interfere in the elections. In particular, activity of the “Matryoshka” network, which is supported by the Kremlin, is mentioned, with the aim of creating fake media and spreading disinformation.

Diaspora voting and scale

A feature of this year’s elections was voting by mail for the Moldovan diaspora in ten countries. In total, CEC opened 301 polling stations in 41 countries worldwide. For residents of the left bank of the Dniester, voting on territory controlled by Chisinau, 12 polling stations are operating.

On September 29, experts also emphasized the importance of a coordinated approach to organizing the elections and ensuring security of the process to guarantee transparent and free expression of the will of the citizens.

“Moldova, our dear homeland, is in danger and needs your help. Your vote must decide our fate, not bought votes. We are moving forward in peace toward our European future”