Overview
The Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR) is a right-wing populist and far-right political party in Romania, with a presence in the neighboring Republic of Moldova. Founded in 2019 by George Simion and Claudiu Târziu, the party has gained significant traction in the country's politics. As of 2026, AUR is the second-largest party in both chambers of the Parliament of Romania, with a notable rise in popularity since its inception.
History and Founding
The Alliance for the Union of Romanians was founded in 2019 with the primary goal of participating in the 2020 local and parliamentary elections in Romania. George Simion, a key figure in the party's formation, had previously run as an independent candidate in the 2019 European election in Romania but failed to secure a seat. Despite this setback, Simion and Claudiu Târziu persevered and successfully established the AUR party.
Ideology and Manifesto
AUR's manifesto revolves around the unification of all Romanians, with a specific focus on the union of Moldova and Romania. The party's logo is symbolic of this vision, featuring a map of Romania with eight stars extending beyond the country's current borders, inclusively representing Moldova. George Simion has been seen wearing a pin with the map of the Kingdom of Romania at its 1918-1940 territorial apogee, further underscoring the party's goal.
Key Facts and Ties
- AUR's four pillars are family, nation, Christian faith, and liberty.
- The party has close ties with the Romanian Orthodox Church.
- AUR has been described as conservative, far-right, fascist or neo-fascist (particularly neo-Legionary), pro-Russian, pro-Israel, and as promoting anti-Hungarian sentiment.
Rise to Prominence
The party's fortunes changed significantly in the 2020 parliamentary elections, where AUR unexpectedly secured 9% of the votes, placing it as the fourth-largest party in the Parliament. Four years later, in the 2024 elections, the party's popularity surged, and it became the second-largest party with 18% of the votes.
Background and Context
Romania's complex history and its relations with neighboring countries have long been a subject of discussion and tension. The idea of unifying Moldova with Romania is not new and has been a topic of debate among Romanian politicians and citizens for decades. AUR's stance on this issue, though controversial, reflects a segment of the Romanian population's desire for a unified Romanian state.
FAQ
What are the primary goals of the Alliance for the Union of Romanians? AUR's primary goals are centered around the unification of all Romanians, particularly focusing on the union of Moldova and Romania.
How has the party's popularity changed since its inception? The party has experienced a significant rise in popularity, starting with 9% of the votes in the 2020 parliamentary elections and increasing to 18% in the 2024 elections.
What are the four pillars of the Alliance for the Union of Romanians? AUR's four pillars are family, nation, Christian faith, and liberty.
What has been the party's stance on issues like nationalism and foreign relations? AUR has been described as conservative, far-right, fascist or neo-fascist (particularly neo-Legionary), pro-Russian, pro-Israel, and as promoting anti-Hungarian sentiment.