At first glance, Romania’s presidential race might seem like a clash between opposing visions for Europe. But for millions of Romanians – at home and across the diaspora – it’s something far more profound: a turning point for true democratic renewal. And if George Simion wins, it may just offer a positive path forward not only for Romania, but for a more honest and united Europe.
Simion’s first-round victory, with over 41% of the vote, is not a rejection of Europe – it’s a rejection of broken promises. It’s a call from the people to restore dignity, justice, and national pride. Nicușor Dan, the technocratic mayor of Bucharest, remains in the race with 21%, but the momentum clearly favors a message that has long been ignored: people want to be heard.
Simion is not campaigning against Europe – he is campaigning for a better Romania within Europe. A Romania that is no longer treated as a second-class member. A Romania that is no longer an exporter of labor and talent, but a nation that offers opportunity and respect to its citizens.
For too long, the political establishment wrapped itself in the EU flag while mismanaging the country. Romanians saw EU funds disappear into corrupt networks, hospitals remain outdated, infrastructure left in limbo, and wages stagnate while taxes climb. Is it any surprise that voters – including over half the diaspora – backed a candidate who speaks clearly and directly to their frustrations?
This is not anti-European. It is pro-people.
Simion has been clear: Romania belongs to the West. He has called Russia a threat to Europe. But he also believes Romania must no longer be a silent follower – it must be a respected voice at the table. That means re-evaluating how national interests are defended in Brussels. It means having the courage to say “no” when policies harm rather than help. It means saying “yes” to a Europe that listens to all its citizens, not just those in Paris or Berlin.
Critics say Simion is sowing distrust in democratic institutions. But perhaps it is time to ask: What happens when democratic institutions stop listening to their people? In this context, Simion represents not disruption but restoration – of democratic values, of respect, of hope.
Romanians abroad, working in Spain, Germany, the UK and France, are not rejecting the EU – they are demanding that Romania finally benefit fairly from it. They are tired of watching their families suffer back home while their labor helps power other economies. They are saying: “We want a Romania we can return to.”
Simion’s campaign slogan is “Respect” – and it resonates deeply. It reflects a shared desire, especially among younger and working-class voters, for a Romania that stands tall. One that protects its identity, contributes with strength to European unity, and refuses to be marginalized.
Importantly, Simion does not call for exiting the EU or NATO. He understands that alliances matter. But alliances must be balanced, and mutual. His message is one of reform – of rebalancing Romania’s role within Europe, not abandoning it.
The 18 May election represents more than a choice between two candidates. It marks the end of Romania’s post-communist transition. For the first time, neither of the old establishment parties reached the final round. That is democracy in action. That is the people speaking – not against Europe, but for themselves.
And perhaps Europe should listen.
Because if Europe continues to ignore the voices of its own citizens – if it stays divided, elitist, and disconnected – the real threat isn’t Simion, or any single leader. The real threat is internal collapse, and global irrelevance.
Romania may be showing the way: not a retreat from Europe, but a rebirth. A Europe built from the bottom up, starting with dignity, sovereignty, and democratic respect.
If Simion wins, it could be the beginning of a new conversation across the continent – one where citizens reclaim their voice, and Europe becomes stronger for it.
