How can Moldova’s resilience in the context of the EU accession process?

Abstract

This article examines Moldova’s strategic response to Russia’s hybrid war in the last four years. It proceeds by investigating the country’s reform of its security sector in the context of multiple crises. It explores how Moldova has systematically addressed multifaceted security challenges through institutional reforms and resilience-building mechanisms. The article argues that Moldova has gone through a strategic shift from a passive, neutrality-based approach to a proactive security paradigm, characterised by wider engagement with Western partners. Furthermore, the EU accession process has enhanced the transformation of Moldova’s security sector, providing critical financial and technical support with responding to Russian electoral interference, energy weaponisation, cyber-attacks and disinformation campaigns.