Author(s): Adrian LESENCIUC, Corneliu-Mugurel COZMANCIUC
Publication name: Romanian Intelligence Studies Review
Publisher name: Mihai Viteazul National Intelligence Academy
Publication type: Journal article
Publication date: June 30, 2022
Pagination:
Issue/ Volume: 27/2022
DOI:
Abstract:
Toppled with current political turmoil and crises on multiple fronts, Romania has
undoubtedly been a highly challenged state since the fall of communism in 1989. Today,
the Covid-19 pandemic has amplified many of these crises, including facilitating voter
fatigue and depression, behaviours that eventually end up harming democracy. Moreover,
the concerning status quo drawn by the last parliamentary elections, scoring a record low
number of votes indicates numerous warning signals and asks for a solution-oriented
debate between and within political parties, but also with the electorate above all.
This paper entails an original approach by connecting two preeminent
phenomena, both having political, social, and economic implications – a low voter turnout,
and the global pandemic. As a proposed solution, the research hypothesis is if investing in
security culture became a priority, then the citizens’ trust in their government would be
restored, and the legacy of doubt and suspicion inherited from the communist era would
be overcome. The outcome anticipated from building a solid security culture could reverse
the ongoing voter fatigue in Romania, leading to higher turnouts in the new elections to
come. A stronger bond is expected to emerge between politicians and citizens while the
level of trust in public authority would increase.
Keywords: security culture, low voter turnout, voter fatigue, corruption, Covid-19.
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