As the EU grapples with the growing influence of authoritarian powers in its neighbourhood, the RE-ENGAGE project is working to provide the EU with a new, resilience-focused approach to democracy support. At a recent RE-ENGAGE conference in Moldova, researchers highlighted the need for the EU to adapt its democracy support strategies to address the unique challenges facing hybrid regimes in Eastern Europe and the Western Balkans.
On November 7, 2024, Moldova State University hosted the RE-ENGAGE project session during the National Scientific Conference “Integration through Research and Innovation” in Chișinău. The event brought together experts to discuss EU democracy support, the challenges of hybrid governance, and Moldova’s European integration in the context of current geopolitical pressures.
Pernille Rieker from the Norwegian Institute of International Affairs (NUPI) presented insights from the RE-ENGAGE project, highlighting the need for a new EU approach to supporting democracy in hybrid regimes. Traditional models based on conditionality and governance reforms have proven inadequate against modern challenges like foreign interference and entrenched informal networks of power.
“We have to rethink how the EU engages with hybrid regimes—only by addressing both formal and informal power structures can we hope to build true resilience.”
Understanding hybrid regimes
Morten Bøås, also from NUPI, explained the complexities of hybrid regimes in Eastern Europe and the Western Balkans. These states, such as Serbia and Moldova, are in a prolonged transition from communism to liberal democracy. This process has sometimes led to “casino capitalism,” where private interests capture state assets, reinforcing a mix of democratic and authoritarian elements.
“Several of our case countries are caught in a transition from communism to liberal democracies – a transition that has turned out to be almost permanent,” says Morten Bøås.
In countries like Bosnia and Herzegovina, complex governance structures create a “time capsule” effect, trapping the nation in political inefficacy and reinforcing authoritarian tendencies.
Moldova’s EU ambitions and civil society’s role
During a discussion between RE-ENGAGE representatives and stakeholders from various organizations, experts addressed Moldova’s challenges in pursuing EU integration.
Moldova’s path to EU integration is challenged by divided public opinion and Russian influence. Some sceptical citizens cite Bulgaria’s outmigration issues as a cautionary example.
In contrast, Georgia’s 80% pro-EU public remains anchored by a resilient civil society. Maia Machavariani, Director of Programmes at the Eastern European Centre for Multiparty Democracy (EECMD), emphasised that democracy must not be taken for granted.
“We are fighting for the future we’ve built over 30 years, and in just six months, we lost everything.”
Evolving EU role in democracy promotion
As geopolitical pressures grow, the EU is rethinking its democracy support model, originally crafted in a time of peace but now under strain from authoritarian pressures both beyond and within its borders.
To effectively promote democracy beyond its borders, the EU must also address its own democratic issues, ensuring that it stands as a credible example. This requires a dual approach: collaborating with governments while strengthening civil society, media freedom, and grassroots movements.
“We can’t just promote democracy abroad; we must also defend it,” remarked Piotr Buras from the European Council on Foreign Relations.
The RE-ENGAGE team also visited Bălți City Hall and the North Development Agency to prepare for upcoming fieldwork.
