Romania’s neighbour Moldova is set to hold its next parliamentary elections on 11 July.

Moldova elections 2023: What you need to know

Although not a member of the European Union, Moldova is geographically located in Europe, nestled between Romania and Ukraine.

It is a small country with a population of just over 2.6 million people.

It has a complicated history, having been part of the Soviet Union until 1991.

Who's running in the elections?

There are several political parties running in the elections, but the main contenders are:

• The Party of Socialists of the Republic of Moldova (PSRM)
• The Electoral Bloc of Communists and Socialists (BECS)
• The Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS)
• The Dignity and Truth Platform Party (PPDA)
• The Our Party (PN)

The PSRM is the current ruling party, and its leader, Igor Dodon, is running for re-election.

The PAS is the main opposition party, and its leader, Maia Sandu, is also running for president.

What are the main issues in the elections?

The main issues in the elections are:

• The economy
• Corruption
• The country's relationship with Russia and the European Union

The Moldovan economy has been struggling in recent years, and many voters are concerned about their economic prospects.

Corruption is also a major issue, and many voters are fed up with the high levels of corruption in the government.

Moldova's relationship with Russia and the European Union is also a key issue in the elections.

The country has traditionally been close to Russia, but in recent years it has been moving closer to the European Union.

This has caused some tension with Russia, which sees Moldova as part of its sphere of influence.

What are the possible outcomes of the elections?

The outcome of the elections is uncertain, but there are a few possible scenarios.

• The PSRM could win re-election.
• The PAS could win the election and form a new government.
• There could be a hung parliament, with no party winning a majority of seats. This would likely lead to a coalition government.

The outcome of the elections will have a significant impact on Moldova's future.

A PSRM victory would likely mean that Moldova would continue to move closer to Russia.

A PAS victory would likely mean that Moldova would continue to move closer to the European Union.

A hung parliament would likely lead to a period of political instability.