Bolojan: Security Is a shared responsibility of the entire society
Romanian Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan has underlined a crucial shift in the concept of national defense, stating firmly that peace can no longer be taken for granted and that the responsibility for security extends far beyond the military forces to encompass the entire society. Speaking at the Romanian Army Day ceremony in Carei, Bolojan highlighted that defense today is a multifaceted mission that involves all sectors of society, especially as new forms of conflict such as disinformation, cyberattacks, and manipulation blend with conventional warfare.
Societal vigiliance needed
Bolojan described the current period as exceptionally complex both domestically and internationally. Internally, Romania faces the urgent need to strengthen its public finances and economic foundations while addressing injustices that could undermine social cohesion. On the international front, the ongoing war in Ukraine has shattered regional stability, abolishing the assumption that peace is a constant. In this destabilized environment, the Prime Minister stressed that defense can no longer be viewed solely through the prism of military troops and equipment — it requires societal vigilance, preparedness, and resilience.
To achieve this broadened concept of defense, Bolojan emphasized the importance of reinforcing the army, the defense industry, and critical national infrastructure. He called for increased investment in training personnel and adopting advanced technology while allocating a significant portion of the budget to this purpose. This holistic approach aims to ensure national readiness against conventional threats and modern hybrid challenges alike.
Reamarment and domestic produciton
Complementing Bolojan's remarks, Ionuț Moșteanu defence minister emphasized, that Romania should have a greater role in Europe's rearmament that goes beyond mere procurement contracts. This vision promotes the development of domestic production facilities and job creation within the defense sector, thereby empowering Romania both economically and strategically in the European context.
Bolojan's message also resonates with his broader political stance that Romania will not initiate conflicts but must focus on defending its sovereignty and supporting alliances such as NATO and the European Union. He highlighted that stability and public confidence are essential antidotes to disinformation campaigns that attempt to sow discord and fear.
Ultimately, Bolojan's call is a call to collective responsibility. The peace and security of Romania depend as much on the readiness of its armed forces as on the active involvement of civil society, knowledge workers, policymakers, and citizens committed to resilience and solidarity. This comprehensive defense philosophy recognizes that safeguarding a nation today requires united effort across all layers of society.
