The referendum on Moldova's European integration took place

The Central Election Commission of Moldova has recognized the constitutional referendum on the attitude of citizens to European integration as having taken place. By 18.00, 42.44% of voters took part in it.

To recognize the plebiscite as valid, it is enough for the turnout to be 33.33%. Now, after counting the votes, it will become clear whether the majority of citizens supported the amendments to the basic law of the country.

In case of success (50% + 1 vote) This will be the first referendum in Moldova, which became the basis for changing the Constitution. All the others were failures due to low turnout or did not support the correction of articles.

If citizens support joining the EU, two phrases will be added to the preamble of the Constitution: "confirmation of the European identity of the people of the Republic of Moldova" and "proclaiming integration into the European Union as a strategic goal of the Republic of Moldova". In addition, a new section will appear in the basic law of the country — "Integration into the European Union."

As in the case of any other elections, the results of the referendum must be confirmed by the Constitutional Court of the Republic of Moldova.

Recall, a question was put up for discussion by citizens: "Do you support making changes to A constitution for the purpose of Moldova's accession to the European Union?".

The pro-European authorities of the republic, with the support of Western partners, carried out explanatory work on the advantages of joining the EU. In turn, the Ambassador The EU in Chisinau, Janis Mazheiks, warned that if the result of the referendum turns out to be negative, this "may introduce ambiguity" into the further process of negotiations of the candidate country on joining the European Union.

For its part, the opposition urged citizens to boycott the vote or vote against European integration.

As EADaily reported, the referendum vote takes place on the same day as the Moldovan presidential election. The current head of state, Maia Sandu, who is supported by the ruling Action and Solidarity party, has 10 opponents. Experts believe that the main fight will unfold in the second round. There is no second round for the constitutional referendum.

The CEC declared the elections of the President of Moldova to have taken place as of 14.30. By this time, 33.07% of citizens had used their right to vote. 48.5% voted by 18.00, polling stations will close at 21.00 local time.