Romanian attitudes toward democracy and trust

Two recent July 2026 polls reveal a growing unease with Romania’s democratic system. The first survey (July 22) found that 46 % of respondents would accept a less democratic, authoritarian‑type regime if it promised greater order and stability, with support for such an option varying by party affiliation and education level. Four weeks later, a second poll (July 26) showed that 80 % of Romanians believe the country is heading in the wrong direction and expressed very low confidence in political leaders, the government and parliament—each receiving favorable assessments from only about one‑fifth of respondents. Trust was highest for the Romanian Army and the Orthodox Church, suggesting a preference for institutions perceived as apolitical and stable. Together, the polls illustrate a climate of widespread dissatisfaction with current democratic governance and an openness among a sizeable minority to authoritarian alternatives in exchange for perceived stability.