Romanian poll finds nearly half would tolerate authoritarian rule for stability

A survey by the Institute for Social and Political Research (INSCOP) reports that 46% of Romanians would accept a less democratic system if it provided greater order and stability, while 47.2% would continue to support democracy even when it involves political conflict. The poll also shows that 60.6% consider democratic oversight more important despite slower decision‑making, whereas 29.5% prioritize faster decisions over democratic control.

Support for an authoritarian option differs by party affiliation and education level. Among those willing to accept a less democratic regime, 59% are voters of the Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR), 45% back the Social Democratic Party (PSD), 27% support the National Liberal Party (PNL) and 14% favour the Save Romania Union (USR). Educationally, 60% of respondents open to authoritarianism have only primary schooling, 48% have secondary education and 24% hold higher‑education degrees.