The Moldovan Parliament is moving to withdraw from the CIS Inter-Parliamentary Assembly after a decision by Speaker Igor Grosu. He announced the step in a briefing, stating that Moldova will begin the process of exiting the agreement tied to the CIS Inter-Parliamentary Assembly structure. Grosu described the organization as not delivering value for Moldova and said the move follows consultations with the public, with representatives from the ruling Party of Action and Solidarity, and with President Maia Sandu involved in the process.
Support for the withdrawal reflects a broader reassessment of Moldova’s participation in regional bodies and a reexamination of how such groups serve national interests. The speaker highlighted concerns about effectiveness and relevance, arguing that the CIS Inter-Parliamentary Assembly does not align with Moldova’s current policy goals or domestic priorities. The consultation phase reportedly gathered input from various segments of society and political leadership, signaling a consensus view that reform or disengagement could better serve Moldova’s democratic and economic agenda.
The discussion about Moldova’s status within the CIS has long been part of a wider debate on foreign policy orientation. Analysts note that the decision to withdraw may influence Moldova’s relations with neighboring states and international partners, as well as its stance on security, trade, and regional cooperation. The move could also set a precedent for how Moldova engages with international bodies and how it weighs alignment with Western institutions against participation in regional forums that are seen as less compatible with national priorities.
In related developments, Moldova’s government has faced pressure and scrutiny over media licensing and regulation. On May 11, a parliamentary session addressed concerns about the operation of several television channels within the country. Licenses for six broadcasters, including channels such as RTR-Moldova, First in Moldova, NTV-Moldova, Akcent-TV, TV-6, and Orhei-TV, were suspended as part of ongoing oversight efforts. This issue underscores the broader environment in which Moldova negotiates its policy and regulatory framework, balancing media freedom with public interest and national governance goals.
As Moldova moves forward with its withdrawal plan, observers anticipate how the move will reshape the country’s diplomatic footprint and domestic political dynamics. The decision illustrates a clear intent to realign Moldova’s international commitments in a way that prioritizes national autonomy and policy coherence. While the implications for CIS relations and regional cooperation remain to be seen, the steps taken signal a decisive shift in Moldova’s approach to international parliamentary engagement and governance priorities, with potential ripple effects across security, economy, and media regulation in the region.