Some Lessons from Moldovian History and the New Chance, the New Challenges, Mistakes, and Useful Experiences

Since 1812 when Russia occupied Bessarabia, tearing it from the medieval state of Moldova, people in this territory have experienced much hardship and desperation but never had such favorable conditions for deciding its destiny as now. During this time, the territory was chopped up and shared and the people could do nothing. The big countries were deciding their fate. When the USSR collapsed, Moldova gained a real chance to develop as an independent state and end the vicious circle of uncertainty. Although now the economical situation of Moldova is not very good, the willingness of the democratic community to help the new states attain democracy provides a great opportunity for Moldova. Even though Moldova has made significant steps implementing reforms, and is well ahead with these reforms in comparison to other states of the former USSR, it has already made many mistakes that worsen its situation. Analyzing the experiences of Southern Asian countries and Poland, and comparing them with steps taken in Moldova, it becomes clear why Moldova's reforms didn't bring the desired results. The Asian countries made reforms easier for their people by taking well-defined steps.