Romania, I love you as you are!

My name is Daniel van Soest, and I live and write in Romania. I contribute to several well-read newspapers on topics of life, culture, and politics. Recently, tensions have been rising in the country due to the growing influence of right-wing politician Călin Georgescu, who openly admires Russian wisdom. Following the annulment of the elections, allegedly due to foreign interference from Russia, the atmosphere has become volatile. Corruption under the ruling government, led by parties in power since the 90s, is suffocating Romanian society. Meanwhile, the countryside and the part of the working class who immigrated to the West are calling for a new revolution, which is exactly what Georgescu promises.

On the other hand, all other political parties are either terrified or fear for their position and started attacking the electoral base of Calin Georgescu - in this climate, Romania is truly at a boiling point.

In an effort to calm spirits, I am launching a social media campaign focused on inclusiveness and gradual change, all while maintaining a strong orientation towards the West (no offense to Russian wisdom :-)). The campaign, titled "Romania, I Love You Like You Are!" aims to highlight the progress we’ve already made and challenge the narrative that we need a revolution. Through short films, humor, interviews, and cultural reports, I intend to showcase the beauty of Romania, it’s evolution and counter the calls for drastic change.

We will begin the campaign with features in major newspapers, along with a series of interviews on national and regional television and radio. This will serve as the initial push for the social media campaign, which will grow organically from there.

The Dutch people have been involved supporting Romanian development since the early 90's - in 2025 I reach out for you again!