In a decisive electoral outcome, Nicușor Dan, the centrist and pro-European former mayor of Bucharest, has been elected as Romania’s new president. Dan secured 53.6% of the vote in the runoff held on May 18, defeating far-right nationalist George Simion, who garnered 46.4%.
The election witnessed a significant voter turnout of 64.7%, the highest in 25 years, reflecting the electorate’s engagement in a contest widely viewed as pivotal for Romania’s future direction.
“Renew Europe wins. George Simion, Georgia Meloni and her far right-allies lose. Bucharest shows Europe there’s no future in nationalism and hate. Congrats to Nicușor Dan for standing strong for democracy and Europe. The sovereigntist wave can be stopped. Romania just did it,” said Sandro Gozi, EDP Secretary General.
Dan’s victory is seen as a reaffirmation of Romania’s commitment to democratic values and its alignment with the European Union. His campaign emphasized anti-corruption measures, support for Ukraine, and strengthening ties with NATO and the EU. In contrast, Simion, leader of the ultranationalist Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR), advocated for nationalist policies and expressed skepticism towards the EU and NATO.
“In Romania, the victory of pro-European candidate Nicușor Dan in the presidential election is a strong sign of hope. It reaffirms the country’s commitment to democracy, reform, and its European path. This result shows that the centre can still inspire. That it is possible to reject extremes and choose cooperation, ambition, and respect,” commented Maxime Prevot, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belgium.
The election followed a turbulent political period, including the annulment of the 2024 presidential election due to allegations of foreign interference. Dan’s ascent to the presidency is interpreted as a public mandate for stability, reform, and continued integration with European structures.
Following the results, Valerie Hayer, President of the Renew Europe Group in the European Parliament, noted, “Following a significant increase in turnout between the two rounds, the Romanian people have spoken. They have made a clear choice for a pro-European Romania with the election of a candidate from the Renew Europe family”
International reactions have been largely positive, with European leaders expressing relief and support for Dan’s victory, viewing it as a bulwark against rising nationalism. Domestically, Dan faces the challenge of forming a government and addressing pressing issues such as economic reform and maintaining democratic institutions.
Dan’s presidency is anticipated to steer Romania towards deeper integration within the European Union, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to shared European values and cooperation.
Dan is scheduled to be sworn in as president on Monday, May 26, during a joint session of the Romanian Parliament. This electoral outcome signifies a pivotal moment for Romania, highlighting the electorate’s clear preference for a pro-European trajectory and a rejection of nationalist rhetoric. As Dan assumes office, both Romania and the broader European community will closely observe how his administration fulfills promises of democratic renewal and European integration.
