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The Inquiry

What will happen now with Romania’s elections?

Mar 26, 2025
Romania's political scene has been shaken after a far-right, pro-Russia figure stunned everyone by winning the first round of presidential elections, only to have his victory annulled over serious allegations. The rise of social media as a campaign tool has transformed voter engagement, with unconventional methods challenging traditional politics. As the country prepares for a rerun of the vote, serious questions arise: will nationalism take root, or will mainstream parties regain control? Mass protests reflect a nation at a crossroads.
22:59

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Quick takeaways

  • The rise of Calin Georgescu highlights a growing discontent among Romanian voters towards traditional politics and their desire for change.
  • The annulment of the presidential election due to campaign illegitimacy and social media manipulation has created significant political polarization in Romania.

Deep dives

Historical Context of Romanian Politics

Romania's political turmoil is deeply rooted in its history, particularly the impact of the communist regime under Nicolae Ceaușescu from 1965 to 1989. Ceaușescu's dictatorship was marked by extreme nationalism and corruption, isolating Romania economically and politically from the rest of the world. After his regime's collapse in 1989, Romania sought integration with the European Union, which led to significant economic growth but also increased inequalities, leaving many citizens feeling disenfranchised and nostalgic for the past. This historical backdrop helps explain the recent rise of far-right sentiments and the shifting political landscape in Romania, reflecting a lingering connection to non-democratic inclinations and a desire for strong leadership among certain voter segments.

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