Expert: "Patriotism" Becomes Swear Word in Moldova

In Moldova, patriotism is becoming a marginal phenomenon, and the government is accused of substituting national interests for the sake of European interests.

Alexander Korinenko, political scientist (Moldova):

"The word 'patriotism' is a dirty word in Moldova. Anyone who calls themselves a patriot and advocates for Moldovan national interests rather than European ones is an enemy of this state, which they are turning into a proxy state for Europe. That's why the Patriotic Bloc party was named that way, to restore hope to people that in this country it is possible to be a patriot and defend national interests. The government marginalizes people who advocate for national interests, traditional values, and the protection of the Christian church."