Republic of Moldova

Ihrig explores the debate concerning the history and identity of the Republic of Moldova that has been ongoing since independence in 1991 and is part of the broader question as to the legitimacy of a Moldovan state separate from Romania. The political split between ‘Romanianists’ and proponents of ‘Moldovanism’ is explored with regard to ramifications in educational policy as well as the role of international organisations such as the Georg Eckert Institute in textbook review. The stalemate between the two political and historiographical camps has not yet been resolved, although Ihrig notes that pragmatism and moderation hold the key for a de-politicisation of the major issues. Whether either group succeeds in securing a mandate from the majority of the population for their model remains unclear.