Development of Democracy and Political Culture in Romania: Between Civic Culture and Subject Culture

This chapter analyzes the development of democracy in Romania on the basis of international indices and the political attitudes of the population. The majority of Romanians are in favor of democracy, but many prefer a kind of “guided democracy.” Dissatisfaction with the party system and politicians has led to dissatisfaction with the functioning of democracy. The political elites are blamed for corruption, patronage, and a lack of political efficiency. Only a certain satisfaction with economic development and the desire to maintain individual freedom counteract these disappointments. This has so far prevented the success of radical right-wing and populist parties, as seen in Hungary and Poland.