European Union centrist politician who defied odds to decisively defeat a hard-right nationalist in Romania’s critical presidential race, has emerged as a counterforce to the right-wing populist wave

Nicusor Dan, a pro-European figure, has won Romania's presidential election with 54% of the vote, defeating nationalist George Simion. Dan campaigned

Urban voters, women and ethnic minorities overwhelmingly supported Dan. His conservative rival, George Simion, has announced plans to file a legal challenge to annul the election, citing 'foreign interference.