Moldova joins the Governing Council of the Community of Democracies

Warsaw, 21 July 2023- The Republic of Moldova joins the Governing Council of the Community of Democracies (CoD), an intergovernmental coalition of states working to strengthen democracy, human rights, and the rule of law worldwide. The accession comes as an acknowledgment of the tangible progress made by Moldova in its democratic development, including in advancing the state of fundamental rights, political rights, and civil liberties.

The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration of Moldova, H.E. Nicu Popescu, addressed the 36^th CoD Governing Council Meeting in May 2023, outlining Moldova’s commitment to democracy and recent progress achieved, including its path to accession to the European Union, and the will of the Moldovan people to continue efforts to build strong democratic practices and institutions and strengthen democratic resilience.

“The evaluation of Moldova’s request to join the Governing Council of the Community of Democracies has been successfully concluded today. We express our gratitude to the members of the Governing Council for their trust and willingness to consider our aspiration to contribute towards the advancement of peaceful and inclusive societies. We are determined to actively support sustainable development, equal access to justice, and the establishment of effective, accountable, and inclusive public institutions at all levels. Once again, the Republic of Moldova reaffirms its unwavering dedication to joining the community of democracies that share a common goal of promoting modernization and democratization worldwide”- said Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and European Integration of Moldova Nicu Popescu.

The engagement of Moldova with the Community of Democracies began with the country’s adoption in 2000 of the CoD founding document, the Warsaw Declaration, and has continued over the years. Moldova’s membership will add to the diversity of the CoD Governing Council, which includes Member States from various regions of the world. This makes the CoD Governing Council a unique venue to share best practices and advocate globally on issues of mutual concern.

The Presidency of the CoD is currently held by Canada. Commenting on Moldova’s accession, Canada’s Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly said: “Democracy is key to peace and security, prosperity and greater equality. It is critical that we work together to address threats to democracy and increase our resilience to these challenges. Moldova has made numerous positive strides in advancing its democracy and I commend their commitment to continuing this important work. I am delighted to welcome Moldova to the Governing Council of the Community of Democracies, and look forward to deepening our collaboration.”

Moldova’s efforts to secure membership in the Governing Council originated during the CoD Presidency of Romania (2019-2022).

“A warm welcome on the occasion of the Republic of Moldova’s becoming a member of the Governing Council of the Community of Democracies. R. Moldova reconfirms its firm commitment to fostering a responsive and inclusive society, and firmly advancing towards a sustainable and vibrant democracy. The important step R. Moldova is taking today will accelerate democratic reforms and support the overall efforts towards integration in the European Union” - said Foreign Minister of Romania Luminița Odobescu.

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