Language controversy will haunt Moldova’s politics

Significance

The name of Moldova’s official language has been a matter of controversy for decades. Opponents of the change view it as a step towards the country’s reunification with neighbouring Romania.

Impacts

• The government has been using identity to divert attention from socio-economic grievances.
• Elites in Transnistria will use the introduction of the Romanian language to oppose the region’s reintegration into Moldova.
• Russia will leverage the reopened language controversy to stoke anti-Romanian sentiments, especially among ethnic minorities.
• The language bill opens the door to increasing Romanian political and financial support for Moldova.