How the Romanian Diaspora Influenced the Elections

In the recent Romanian elections (presidential and parliamentary), the diaspora played a decisive role—mobilizing en masse, favoring anti-establishment candidates, and helping to shape pivotal outcomes. Influence, key figures, and long-term implications.

1. Diaspora — a rising electoral force

Official figures show that in the 2025 presidential runoff, the diaspora voted 55.86% for George Simion and 44.14% for Nicușor Dan .Approximately 587,190 votes came from abroad versus 247,388 for the runner-up .Analysts note diaspora as decisive .

2. Mechanisms of political penetration

a) TikTok and digital campaigns

Refute uncovered a large-scale influence operation targeting the diaspora, spreading populist messages via TikTok .

b) Expressing dissatisfaction

Romanians abroad feel overlooked—often seasonal workers facing discrimination—forming a ready-to-vote anti-system electorate .

c) Voting access

An expanded voting network (e.g., Auckland polling stations) was crucial , making emigration hubs electorally decisive.

3. Key facts

Fact	Details
Diaspora share	Made up over 10% of votes in the first round
Shift to extremes	Over half voted for right-wing/populist candidates
Digital campaigns	TikTok was crucial in reaching voters
Mobilization	About 158,000 voted abroad ahead of the second round

4. Editorial opinion

• GIS experts: “The diaspora has become an autonomous electoral block with its own info channels.”

• Digital analysts: “Social platforms propagate radical messages faster in diaspora communities.”

• Political scientists: “The intersection of digital mobilization and anti-establishment sentiment creates new electoral phenomena.”

5. Conclusions & impact

The Romanian diaspora emerged as a key, independent actor in recent elections. Expanded voting access and digital campaigning have raised questions about foreign influence and shifting electoral norms.