The controversy surrounding earlier elections in the Republic of Moldova, the frequent changes, and the added criticism of how expatriate voting was organised undermined the credibility of the voting process. Therefore, the Venice Commission recommends ensuring that any future amendments to electoral legislation are adopted by broad consensus after extensive public consultations with all relevant stakeholders, well in advance of elections, thus ensuring confidence in the electoral process. This recommendation applies in particular to any amendments to be made on the basis of Article 35(5) of the Law.