Moldova’s Presidential Elections and EU Referendum: A Critical Moment
On October 20, Moldovans will vote in both presidential elections and a constitutional referendum on EU integration. These elections are critical as they will set the stage for the 2025 parliamentary elections and indicate the level of support for President Maia Sandu and her liberal, pro-EU Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS). The outcome will also reflect public opinion on Moldova’s EU integration efforts, which have been central to Sandu's agenda. Despite achievements in governance, the PAS government faces criticism for falling short of building social cohesion and delivering all promised reforms. The EU can support Moldova by focusing on economic development and stability, job creation, enhancing administrative capacity, and supporting Moldova’s resilience against Russian hybrid threats.
Waiting for Christian
The pro-business Free Democrats are likely to leave the government early. It may be party leader—and finance minister—Christian Lindner’s last consequential mistake for a while.
Rebuilding Trust in Global Health Governance
How a “Defense Tax” Can Finance Europe’s Higher Defense Expenditure
Highly indebted European NATO countries should levy a “defense tax” to make their long-term commitment to higher defense spending politically credible and financially sustainable.
New in our Media Center
High Stakes in the Middle East: Iran, Israel, and the International Response
We take a closer look at the escalating crisis in the Middle East. Roughly one year after the terrorist attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023 – and one year into a conflict with tens of thousands dead or wounded and hundreds of thousands displaced – there is no end in sight.
