Phenomenon of “Path Dependence” - Institutional Impediments to the European Integration of the Republic of Moldova

Abstract

Path dependence theory determines ways in which previous decisionshave produced a set of institutions and policies and how they, in theirturn, determine future decisions. The last four years of Moldova’s historytransposes a pessimistic mood among the population of the country, aswell as among the community of experts, political scientists, politicians- regarding the Moldova’s “success story” and its potential to movecloser to the European Union. The current situation in the Moldovansociety is a reflection of political decisions made by the government andthe political class, which may have an impact on the EU agenda and,relatively, in one form or another, is characteristic for other countriesin this region (here Ukraine). Political analysis argues that in both statesthere is the influence and participation of the oligarchic factor on thepolitical agenda, characterized by its destructive nature as to domesticpolitics, the strengthening of pro-Russian movements and increase inthe number of sympathizers, which, in the end, “benevolently” impactsthe geopolitical orientation of the country.