Who is Calin Georgescu, Romania’s far-right outsider and presidential contender?

Georgescu’s campaign has focused on themes of traditional values, family, and Christian Orthodoxy, often promoted through TikTok and YouTube.

By: Express Web Desk

November 26, 2024 01:31 AM IST

2 min read

Calin Georgescu, running as an independent candidate for president, speaks to media after registering his bid in the country's presidential elections, in Bucharest, Romania. (AP photo)

Calin Georgescu, a far-right independent candidate, has emerged as a surprising front-runner in Romania’s presidential race, securing 22.9% of votes in the first round. A self-proclaimed political outsider, Georgescu is critical of NATO and Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, advocating a shift in Romania’s traditionally pro-Western stance.

Georgescu’s campaign has focused on themes of traditional values, family, and Christian Orthodoxy, often promoted through TikTok and YouTube. He has also emphasized dialogue with Russia over confrontation, describing Romania’s current pro-Ukraine policies as detrimental.

The 62-year-old, a former civil servant and UN rapporteur, once held government roles and was associated with the far-right Alliance for Uniting Romanians (AUR) before leaving the party over his controversial pro-Russian views.

He has labeled NATO’s missile defense shield in Romania a “diplomatic shame” and questioned the alliance’s commitment to its members’ defense.

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Georgescu’s rhetoric has raised concerns domestically and abroad. He has praised controversial historical figures like Ion Antonescu and Corneliu Zelea Codreanu, linked to anti-Semitic movements and World War II atrocities. Critics fear his leadership could polarize Romania and strain relations within the EU and NATO.

Despite being seen as a political outsider, Georgescu has gained traction by tapping into public dissatisfaction with inflation and economic challenges. His rise has unsettled European allies, with one EU diplomat describing his potential presidency as a “disaster” for Romania’s democratic and security landscape.

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In the Dec. 8 run-off, Georgescu will face opposition candidate Elena Lasconi. The outcome could reshape Romania’s role in regional security and its alignment with Western institutions.

(With inputs from Reuters)

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