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In the Pursuit of Democracy: Support for Referendums in Moldova

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  • Sergiu Gherghina

    (Department of International Studies and Contemporary History, Babes‐Bolyai University Cluj, Romania / Department of Politics and International Relations, University of Glasgow, Scotland)

Abstract

Support for referendums has often been investigated in new and established democracies. However, we know very little about what drives support for referendums in transition countries. This article addresses that gap and aims to identify the determinants of support for referendums in the Republic of Moldova. The analysis uses individual-level data from a survey in November 2024 based on a nationally representative sample in the aftermath of a divisive popular vote on EU accession. The results indicate that support is rooted both in long-term attitudes, such as democratic satisfaction, democratic values, and high interest in politics, as well as in more immediate situational and strategic considerations. Compared to earlier evidence from democracies, people in Moldova attach more hope to referendums as a way to improve democracy and disconnect them from critiques against politicians.

Suggested Citation

  • Sergiu Gherghina, 2026. "In the Pursuit of Democracy: Support for Referendums in Moldova," Politics and Governance, Cogitatio Press, vol. 14.
    • Handle: RePEc:cog:poango:v14:y:2026:a:11124
    DOI: 10.17645/pag.11124
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Grosjean, Pauline & Ricka, Frantisek & Senik, Claudia, 2013. "Learning, political attitudes and crises: Lessons from transition countries," Journal of Comparative Economics, Elsevier, vol. 41(2), pages 490-505.
    2. Shaun Bowler & Todd Donovan, 2019. "Perceptions of Referendums and Democracy: The Referendum Disappointment Gap," Politics and Governance, Cogitatio Press, vol. 7(2), pages 227-241.
    3. Shaun Bowler & Todd Donovan, 2019. "Perceptions of Referendums and Democracy: The Referendum Disappointment Gap," Politics and Governance, Cogitatio Press, vol. 7(2), pages 227-241.
    4. repec:hal:pseose:halshs-00847352 is not listed on IDEAS
    5. Francis Cheneval & Mónica Ferrín, 2018. "Referendums in the European Union: Defective by Birth?," Journal of Common Market Studies, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 56(5), pages 1178-1194, July.
    6. Joan Font & Magdalena Wojcieszak & Clemente J. Navarro, 2015. "Participation, Representation and Expertise: Citizen Preferences for Political Decision-Making Processes," Political Studies, Political Studies Association, vol. 63, pages 153-172, April.
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