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An Entrepreneur from the Left Bank of the Nistru River Modernizes His Chicken Farm with the EU support

Iurie Flerciuc, a poultry farmer from the left bank of the Nistru River, had a dream: to double the number of chickens he raised. To make it happen, he needed additional financial resources, which were not available at the time. Iurie found the time and motivation to put together a business plan, which earned him […]

Iurie Flerciuc, a poultry farmer from the left bank of the Nistru River, had a dream: to double the number of chickens he raised. To make it happen, he needed additional financial resources, which were not available at the time. Iurie found the time and motivation to put together a business plan, which earned him support for expansion from the EU’s Confidence-Building Measures programme, implemented by UNDP.

Iurie chose to pursue poultry farming, building on the experience he had gained alongside his father:
“I followed in my family’s footsteps. It’s much easier when you already know how things work. So all we had to do was organize ourselves and get to work — that’s why I chose poultry farming,” he said.

It all started with building the first poultry house. Then came the natural desire to expand the business.
The €20,000 grant from the European Union was invested in the construction of a second poultry house. Cutting-edge digital equipment was purchased to automate vital processes — from feeding and watering to ventilation and heating.

“This system is new and very efficient. Everything is well thought out: automatic feeding, ventilation, heating — it all runs automatically, which is very convenient. It requires minimal manual labour — the technology does almost everything,” Iurie says enthusiastically.

The new poultry house holds about 15,000 chickens, which Iurie sources from the right bank of the Nistru. Some of the birds grow very quickly, reaching the optimal weight for processing in around 45 days.
Even with a high degree of automation, Iurie’s business has created two new jobs.

“We are a small farm, and we proudly say that we already have loyal customers. Our products are in demand, so everything is going well. Of course, the weather also plays a role — you really have to get it right, creating the right climate so the birds feel comfortable,” he adds.

Iurie’s story is not unique. In 2024, another 19 entrepreneurs from both banks of the Nistru River received support to launch or grow their businesses. The total value of the financial assistance granted exceeds €529,000.

By supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, the EU’s Confidence-Building Measures programme, implemented by UNDP, contributes not only to economic growth but also to the modernization of the agricultural sector and the creation of opportunities on both sides of the Nistru River.

Since 2014, the EU’s Confidence-Building Measures programme, implemented by UNDP, has supported the development and competitiveness of over 70 SMEs from both banks of the Nistru.

The Government, the EU, and the World Bank Group invest in Moldovan entrepreneurship

A total of 66 companies from the Republic of Moldova have received grants amounting to 24.7 million MDL, support that will stimulate nearly 44 million MDL in investments in the national economy. The funds are accessed through several grant programs managed by the Organization for Entrepreneurship Development (ODA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Economic […]

A total of 66 companies from the Republic of Moldova have received grants amounting to 24.7 million MDL, support that will stimulate nearly 44 million MDL in investments in the national economy. The funds are accessed through several grant programs managed by the Organization for Entrepreneurship Development (ODA) in collaboration with the Ministry of Economic Development and Digitalization and will be used for purchasing modern equipment and streamlining production processes.

The support is provided by the Government of the Republic of Moldova, which contributes 7.77 million MDL for 26 companies, and by the European Union, which supports 20 companies with 4.2 million MDL through the project “European Union for Small and Medium Enterprises”.

In addition, 20 companies benefit from grants worth 12.74 million MDL through the Competitiveness Enhancement and Value Chain Integration Program, funded by the Government and the World Bank Group, and implemented by ODA and the World Bank Project Implementation Unit for Competitiveness Enhancement (UIPAC).

Currently, these companies employ over 1,267 people, and with the help of the grants, at least 478 new jobs will be created.

This financial support translates into stronger businesses, better-paid jobs, and more robust economic prospects for communities across the country.

During the event, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economic Development and Digitalization, Doina Nistor, stated:

“The Government is building an economic model based on added value, technology, and innovation. A model in which companies grow through smart investments: in high-performance equipment, in digitalization, in productivity-enhancing solutions. The grants awarded today support this vision and represent our way of telling entrepreneurs: we are here, we believe in you, and we want you to succeed. Because when you support a business, you are actually creating jobs, keeping families at home, and breathing life into communities. And for us, that is the best investment.”

Adam Grodzicki, Deputy Head of the Cooperation Section of the Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova, added: “The prospect of Moldova’s accession to the European Union and integration into the Single Market can be a real game-changer, bringing lasting benefits to the country’s economy and society. Participation in flagship EU programs – such as the Single Market Programme, Digital Europe, and Horizon Europe – will not only strengthen Moldova’s integration into the European business and innovation ecosystem, but will also boost competitiveness, stimulate innovation, and create new employment opportunities for Moldovan citizens.”

Aureliu Casian, Executive Director of the World Bank Project Implementation Unit for Competitiveness Enhancement (UIPAC), emphasized: “The World Bank Group has continuously supported the Government’s efforts to develop the private sector and create a predictable and enabling business environment. The SME Competitiveness Project continues our long-standing cooperation with Moldovan authorities on improving access to finance and export competitiveness over the past five years.

We support businesses that produce and demonstrate healthy competition, including on foreign markets. Through investments supported by the World Bank Group under the Competitiveness Enhancement and Value Chain Integration Program, Moldovan businesses are becoming more efficient, better equipped, and better prepared to export. Real economic development starts when our products become relevant and competitive beyond our borders.”

Speaking about the path of local entrepreneurs and efforts to support them, Nina Potînga, Deputy Director of ODA, highlighted the institution’s commitment to turning bold ideas into sustainable economic realities: “Every entrepreneur who works hard, innovates, and invests in their business contributes to a stronger economy. Through the grants we manage, the Government and development partners support destinies. We support people who create jobs, give meaning to communities, and turn ambitious ideas into real projects. We believe in entrepreneurs as the most genuine engine of development, and we will continue to be their trusted partner.”

Since the beginning of the year, 471 companies have received grants through the Organization for Entrepreneurship Development, amounting to a total of 194 million MDL. This support has generated planned investments of over 383 million MDL in the national economy.

Of the total beneficiaries, 293 companies were funded from the state budget, 147 received support from the European Union through the “European Union for Small and Medium Enterprises” project, and 24 companies were supported through the program funded by the Government and the World Bank Group. Additionally, seven companies benefit from support under the “EU4Moldova: Local Communities” program, funded by the European Union, the Governments of Germany, Austria, and Poland, and implemented by GIZ, ADA, and SFPL in Moldova.

Celebrating Youth Week in Moldova

From 8 to 16 August, young people across Moldova take center stage. The Youth Festival 2025 brings together the creativity, engagement, and energy of the new generation through a series of events — from discussions and workshops to great music and fun. The Europe Café team is joining the initiative and invites you to celebrate […]

From 8 to 16 August, young people across Moldova take center stage. The Youth Festival 2025 brings together the creativity, engagement, and energy of the new generation through a series of events — from discussions and workshops to great music and fun. The Europe Café team is joining the initiative and invites you to celebrate with us!

The events are organized by the National Youth Council of Moldova (NYCM) in the context of International Youth Day, celebrated on 12 of August.

And the best part? Participation is free! The 2025 edition brings together young people from all regions of the country, with a special focus on the municipality of Edineț, designated as Youth Capital 2025, and on Chișinău, which will become the main hub for youth-dedicated activities during this period. Youth Weeks will facilitate open dialogue between young people, decision-makers, the private sector, youth organizations, and international partners, encouraging young people’s active participation in decision-making processes.

This year’s program includes:

Youth Caravan – A series of local events designed to bring young people closer to valuable resources, information, and development opportunities:

  • Căușeni – 8 August
  • Rezina – 9 August
  • Cimișlia – 12 August

International Youth Day (IYD) – Edineț, 12 August – A local event with participation from young people in the region and local authorities.

International Youth Conference – Friday, 15 August
Join us on 15 August at 10:00 at Digital Park Chișinău for an event dedicated to youth who want to be part of change! It’s the perfect place to share your ideas, ask questions, engage in debates, and learn how you can actively contribute to building a more inclusive, fair, and youth-friendly Moldova.

Youth Festival
On 16 August, young people from across the country will gather for the 2025 Youth Festival — held at Veronica Micle Square (Vlaicu Pârcălab Street) in Chișinău. It’s a space dedicated to creativity, diversity, and new experiences.

Starting at 15:00, you’ll find a variety of thematic zones where you can explore democracy, education, art, entrepreneurship, international opportunities, relaxation, and music — all in the company of friends, and all free of charge. See you at the Youth Festival!

Youth Week 2025 is organized by the National Youth Council of Moldova, with the support of the European Union, the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), the Government of Switzerland, the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD), the Norwegian Refugee Council, and the Danish Youth Council. The events are held in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Research and the National Agency for the Development of Youth Programs and Activities.

Public Administration Reform and Fight Against Corruption – new topics explained to interns

Young people of the internship programmes of the European Union and the Government of the Republic of Moldova continued their learning journey with a new training block, focused on two of the country’s priorities: modernising public administration and strengthening anti-corruption efforts. The session kicked off with a closer look at one of the most important […]

Young people of the internship programmes of the European Union and the Government of the Republic of Moldova continued their learning journey with a new training block, focused on two of the country’s priorities: modernising public administration and strengthening anti-corruption efforts.

The session kicked off with a closer look at one of the most important areas of public administration reform: the amalgamation of local authorities. Anastasia Danii, consultant in the Directorate for Local Public Administration and Coordination of Territorial Offices at the State Chancellery, walked the interns through the reasoning behind the reform, the steps taken so far, and the impact such changes have on citizens and local governance. 

The second part shifted attention to European and Moldovan anti-corruption frameworks and efforts to recover illicit assets. Žydrūnas Bartkus, EU High Level Adviser on Anti-Corruption, Anti-Money Laundering and Asset Recovery, shared the best EU practices in the field, illustrating through practical examples how they help foster integrity and strengthen public trust in institutions. The discussion underlined how transparency and accountability are essential to advancing towards Moldova’s European integration path.   

These sessions enrich the experience of interns working in public institutions, offering insights into how policies are made and inspiring them to play an active role in shaping Moldova’s European future. Thus, over two summer months, they collaborate closely with civil servants and EU experts. At the end of the programme, participants are awarded diplomas, and those extending their internship by a month in the same office can apply for a civil service role without a competition or trial period.  

Construction works for water supply and sewerage launched in Cahul

On July 28, in the presence of representatives from the Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development, the Delegation of the European Union, and the Embassy of Germany, construction works were officially launched for the rehabilitation and expansion of water supply and sewerage networks in Cahul municipality and the villages of Cotihana and Crihana Veche. The […]

On July 28, in the presence of representatives from the Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development, the Delegation of the European Union, and the Embassy of Germany, construction works were officially launched for the rehabilitation and expansion of water supply and sewerage networks in Cahul municipality and the villages of Cotihana and Crihana Veche.

The project envisions the construction of approximately 85 km of water and sewerage networks, which will enable the connection of around 2,000 households to modern services. Additionally, investments are planned in auxiliary infrastructure, including 5 pumping stations, 2 water reservoirs, the digitalization of services through the installation of 8,000 smart meters with remote transmission, and the modernization of the billing system of the regional operator SA Apă-Canal Cahul.

The total contract value exceeds 11.4 million euros.

This investment marks a significant step toward providing sustainable, efficient, and high-quality services for residents of Cahul district.

The works are part of a broader water supply and sewerage project in the Cahul district, funded through grants from the German Government and the European Union, representing one of the most important investments in the water sector in the Republic of Moldova. The project’s main objective is to improve the safety and access of the population in Cahul district to quality potable water and sewerage services. To achieve this, the project focuses on rehabilitating and extending the water supply and wastewater infrastructure.

The launch event was attended by representatives of development partners and of the Moldovan central and local authorities, including the Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development, the EU Delegation to Moldova, the German Embassy in Moldova, representatives of the German Development Bank KfW, and local government representatives from Cahul.

Nicolae Dandiș, Mayor of Cahul, stated: “Together with our partners from the European Union and with the strong support of Germany, we have started a project to modernize and improve the water and sewerage systems in Cahul and the nearby localities of Cotihana and Crihana Veche. This project is not just about infrastructure — it’s about improving the quality of life for every resident. Through new equipment and modern technologies, we aim to ensure better access to clean water and a safer, healthier environment for all. I want to highlight that the project is ongoing and progressing as planned.”

Corneliu Cirimpei, State Secretary at the Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development, added:
“This day is particularly important, as monitoring progress and delivering results is a crucial step toward improving the quality of life and stimulating economic activity in the Southern Region, while also protecting our water resources and ecosystems. We are grateful to the EU and the German Government for their considerable support in this vital sector. In recent years, Germany has become one of the key donors involved in modernizing Moldova’s water and sanitation sector.”

Adam Grodzicki, representative of the European Union in Moldova, said: “In partnership with Germany, the European Union is committed to ensuring access to clean water for the city of Cahul and the surrounding rural communities of Cotihana and Crihana Veche. Our joint efforts aim to improve citizens’ access to water and sanitation services, while also protecting the environment by reducing water pollution and preserving groundwater reserves in the region.”

Mr. Michael Pucher, Senior Engineer at KfW Development Bank, emphasized: “This project reflects the joint commitment of Germany and the European Union to improve the lives of Moldovan citizens through reliable access to water and sanitation. Germany, through KfW, is contributing over EUR 41.5 million to project components including urban and rural infrastructure, technical assistance, and capacity building. Combined with nearly EUR 13 million from the EU, this collaboration stands as one of the strongest examples of EU-Germany development partnership in Moldova. Projects like this are proof that European solidarity reaches beyond capitals to the countryside. Connecting households to the new system is key to achieving the project’s full impact. We urge all residents to take this important step — for their health, well-being, and dignity.”

EU and UNDP support Moldova in strengthening anti-corruption efforts 

Together with UNDP, the European Union (EU) will support the capacities of national authorities to fight electoral corruption and illicit political financing, thus contributing to a fair and democratic election process for the Moldovan people.  For this, the EU is mobilizing EUR 2.3 million for the joint project “Resilient Democracy through Anti-Corruption”.  “Moldova’s democracy is […]

Together with UNDP, the European Union (EU) will support the capacities of national authorities to fight electoral corruption and illicit political financing, thus contributing to a fair and democratic election process for the Moldovan people. 

For this, the EU is mobilizing EUR 2.3 million for the joint project “Resilient Democracy through Anti-Corruption”. 

“Moldova’s democracy is more than ever being targeted by malign interference. But the people of Moldova deserve clean processes, notably in this important voting season. Thanks to this project, institutions will have sharper tools, stronger coordination, and legal mechanisms in line with global standards — all essential for protecting electoral integrity and strengthening Moldova’s democratic future,” commented Peter M. Wagner, Head of the European Commission’s Service for Foreign Policy Instruments. 

“The Central Electoral Commission welcomes the launch of the EU-UNDP project ‘Resilient Democracy through Anti-Corruption’, which will safeguard the integrity of electoral processes by enhancing transparency in political financing and strengthening the capacities of institutions tasked with combating electoral corruption. This initiative marks a significant step forward for a democratic society committed to upholding European values,” mentioned Angelica Caraman, President of the Central Electoral Commission. 

“We welcome this funding from the European Union that will contribute to improved anti-corruption governance in the Republic of Moldova. The UNDP – EU partnership will translate into strengthened institutional capacities to prevent and combat corruption, enhanced inter-agency coordination, and legal frameworks aligned with international standards. These efforts are critical to promoting electoral integrity and fostering broader civic resilience and participation,” said Daniela Gasparikova, UNDP Resident Representative to the Republic of Moldova. 

With the funding provided by the European Union, specialized tools, methodologies, and technical assistance will be provided to law enforcement agencies to enhance the capacities for detecting, preventing, investigating, and prosecuting electoral corruption. This will contribute to addressing urgent governance challenges and safeguarding electoral integrity. Additionally, the project will support anti-money laundering and financial regulatory institutions to reinforce legal mechanisms that prevent illicit political financing and money laundering. 

To strengthen investigation capacities, specialized equipment and software will be provided to four law enforcement and investigation institutions: the National Anti-Corruption Centre, the Office for Prevention and Combatting of Money Laundering, the General Police Inspectorate, and the General Prosecutor’s Office. Information-sharing and coordination among the respective institutions will be enhanced. 

Raising awareness campaigns and civic education initiatives will be conducted to increase understanding of the consequences of electoral corruption and empower citizens to make independent and informed electoral choices. In parallel, the project will enhance civil society and investigative journalists’ capacities to expose electoral corruption, increase transparency and foster greater civic engagement. 

In the long term, the project will support the Republic of Moldova’s efforts to align national legal frameworks with EU standards, expand institutional capacities and promote public resilience and effective oversight.

Tender opportunity: Development and implementation of Information Subsystem

Tender opportunity is announced: Development and implementation of Information Subsystem “State Register of Veterinary Medicine Products” The tender under EU-funded project in the Republic of Moldova “Improving the standards compliance through increased national capacities for residue monitoring” seeks the IT software for the establishment of the e-traceability system “State Register of Veterinary Medicine Products” which […]

Tender opportunity is announced: Development and implementation of Information Subsystem “State Register of Veterinary Medicine Products”

The tender under EU-funded project in the Republic of Moldova “Improving the standards compliance through increased national capacities for residue monitoring” seeks the IT software for the establishment of the e-traceability system “State Register of Veterinary Medicine Products” which aims to enhance transparency, compliance, and efficiency in monitoring the production, distribution, and use of VMPs from import/manufacture to the end-user (National Food Safety Agency of the Republic of Moldova). The offer shall include system development and integration, system interface and data exchange, pharmacovigilance database, prescription monitoring and control, user access and security, training and capacity building, as well as support and maintenance.

Deadline for submissions: 5 August 2025 17:00 (CET)

Opening (RFx) number: 7000007814

Link to the procurement portal and submission of offers: UNIDO Procurement Opportunities

Job Announcement: Language Assistant in the EU Twinning Project

A Language Assistant is sought for an EU Twinning Project entitled “Strengthen the capacities of the General Inspectorate for Migration for the implementation of the migration management and asylum legislation in line with EU acquis”. The Twinning project is implemented in close cooperation with the General Inspectorate for Migration in Moldova, the Swedish Migration Agency, […]

A Language Assistant is sought for an EU Twinning Project entitled “Strengthen the capacities of the General Inspectorate for Migration for the implementation of the migration management and asylum legislation in line with EU acquis”.

The Twinning project is implemented in close cooperation with the General Inspectorate for Migration in Moldova, the Swedish Migration Agency, CIEEL from the Hellenic Republic and the General Inspectorate for Immigration in Romania. The working language is English.

Tasks and responsibilities:

The responsibilities of the Language Assistant will be the following:

  • Provide simultaneous or advanced consecutive interpretation from English to Romanian and vice versa during meetings, missions, seminars, trainings, etc.
  • Provide written translation of project material, such as laws, regulations, manuals, training material and other written material from English to Romanian and vice versa
  • Reviewing, translating and editing texts relevant to the project (reports, presentations and documents) in English and Romanian
  • Supporting the RTA and Short-Term Experts (STEs) from the Member States involved in the project activities
  • General support to the Resident Twinning Advisor (RTA) in terms of office and project administration 
  • Perform any other activities related to the project or personal assistance with language issues or other issues that arise from moving to and working in Moldova

Qualifications and skills required:

  • Relevant University degree or similar
  • Excellent spoken and written command of English and Romanian (proficiency level)
  • Substantial practical experience in translation and interpretation
  • Ability to act with discretion and maintaining impartiality and objectivity
  • Advanced computer skills, including a first-class command of Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint & Outlook
  • Flexibility and ability to meet set deadlines and work in demanding situations with a willingness for hard work, as part of an international result-oriented team
  • Maturity of judgment and a problem-solving approach with the ability to work alone or with minimal supervision
  • Excellent skills in communication and working in an international environment
  • Availability to travel in the country and abroad

It would be desirable for the Language Assistant also to have an excellent spoken and written command of Russian

We pay particular importance in our selection procedure to the candidate’s personal ability to fit into our organization and our way of working

Selection procedure and deadlines for the submission of the application

CV (Europass format) and application letter with motivation (all in in English) will be submitted by email to following email addresses with object Language Assistant:
Katarina Mlekov: katarina.mlekov@migrationsverket.se
Milan Bobic: milan.bobic@migrationsverket.se

Incomplete applications or sent after the deadline will be disqualified and treated as non-eligible. The Language assistant is needed at a short notice and should be available latest as from August 12, 2025.

The selection procedure will include job interviews and language tests. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted for interviews. Job interviews may take place online. 

Project start: April 1, 2025
Project end: September 30, 2026
Location: Chisinau, Moldova
Renumeration: Depending on professional experience

The Language assistant may not have or recently (past 6 months) have had any contractual relation with the Beneficiary Country public sector.

Please be informed that the successful applicant may need to undertake full responsibility for the payment of all taxes and obligations deriving from the legislation in force, including for those related to medical and social insurance.  

If you are interested in this position, please send your 1) CV (Europass) in English 2) Application letter per email as soon as possible, latest August 6.

Students learn about environmental journalism with the EU and UNDP support

50 students from Moldova from various academic backgrounds – journalism, education, and ecology – participated in a summer school for future environmental journalists from 20 July to 27, where they learned to write about climate change, the circular economy, and sustainable development. The summer school was organized by the Association of Environmental Journalists as part […]

50 students from Moldova from various academic backgrounds – journalism, education, and ecology – participated in a summer school for future environmental journalists from 20 July to 27, where they learned to write about climate change, the circular economy, and sustainable development. The summer school was organized by the Association of Environmental Journalists as part of the project “Enabling an inclusive green transition in the Republic of Moldova,” funded by the European Union and implemented by UNDP Moldova. 

For eight days, the young people participated in theoretical sessions, practical workshops, discussions with experts, and several field visits.

“I realized how essential it is to have accurate information about the rational use of natural resources and that this is a powerful step towards our country’s green transition. By understanding and documenting current environmental issues and interacting with experts in the field, I confirmed my belief that we do not have a planet B and that it is up to every citizen to show civic spirit and contribute to a sustainable future,” said Nicolae Cernomaz, a student at Georgetown University in the U.S., Faculty of International Politics.

One day, the young people visited a waste sorting plant in Chișinău, where they learned about the processes involved in collecting, separating, and preparing waste for recycling. They understood the importance of reducing consumption, reusing, and recycling as part of a sustainable lifestyle, as well as the essential role of citizens in proper waste management. They also visited the Museum of Lost Things, created with the support of UNDP, where they rediscovered several discarded objects: paintings, books, souvenirs, which were saved from becoming waste and were exhibited to visitors.

“I learned how to communicate about environmental issues through various media platforms, social networks, and ecological photography. Environmental camps encourage active learning and develop a responsible attitude towards the environment and encourage active involvement in protecting it,” says Argentina Fron, a graduate of the Faculty of Journalism and Communication Sciences, Moldova State University.

The participants also visited the wind farm in the village of Chișcăreni, Orhei district, and the Botanical Garden in Chișinău.

Following the field visits, the young people wrote video scripts for social media, filmed and edited videos, and wrote articles, all these under the guidance of mentors.

In previous years, UNDP has conducted training for 140 students from six universities in the country in the field of biodiversity, environmental protection, and water, within the framework of the Eco Media Academy, funded by the Government of Sweden. 

At the same time, during the 2024-2025 school year, students from 87 schools across the country studied energy and climate as part of modules incorporated into school subjects such as physics, geography, social studies, and personal development. This was made possible thanks to modules developed with the support of the European Union and UNDP Moldova, in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Research, the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Environment, and the Presidency of the Republic of Moldova.

National Fathers’ Day: Equal Rights and Choices in Moldova

Father’s Day will be celebrated annually in the Republic of Moldova on the last Sunday of June. Established at the initiative of the Women MPs Platform in Parliament, this celebration highlights the importance of fathers’ involvement in raising and caring for children, and promotes equal roles between women and men, mothers and fathers, both in […]

Father’s Day will be celebrated annually in the Republic of Moldova on the last Sunday of June. Established at the initiative of the Women MPs Platform in Parliament, this celebration highlights the importance of fathers’ involvement in raising and caring for children, and promotes equal roles between women and men, mothers and fathers, both in the family and in society.

The first national Father’s Day celebration took place on 29 June 2025, during the public event “Active Fathers – Equal Partners in Raising Children,” held in front of the Parliament. The event brought together fathers and mothers with their children, government representatives, and development partners.

The special guest was the President of the Republic of Moldova, Maia Sandu, who emphasized that “a child can truly be happy when both the mother and the father make time to be with them, to care for them, to play and enjoy life together,” thus highlighting the importance of fathers’ equal involvement in family life.

According to studies, active involvement of fathers in raising and caring for children improves academic performance, reduces negative behaviors, and contributes to gender equality.

Doina Gherman, Chair of the Women MPs Platform and the initiator of Father’s Day in the Republic of Moldova, emphasized: “Establishing the National Father’s Day is an important step in recognizing the essential role of fathers in the family and in society. This day is not only a symbolic gesture, but also an educational and policy tool that encourages fathers’ involvement and contributes to a more equitable and harmonious society.”

The event “Active Fathers – Equal Partners in Raising Children” promoted several initiatives that support positive social norms and gender balance in the Republic of Moldova.

The event dedicated to the National Father’s Day was organized by the Parliament of the Republic of Moldova with the support of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), within the framework of the regional programme EU4GenderEquality: Together Against Gender Stereotypes and Gender-Based Violence (Phase II), funded by the European Union and jointly implemented by UN Women and UNFPA, in partnership with UNICEF, ILO, CIDDC, and the Moldcell Foundation.

The Fathers’ Club is an initiative launched by UNFPA under the #EU4GenderEquality programme and implemented by the Child Rights Information and Documentation Centre (CIDDC). To date, 28 Fathers’ Clubs have been established, providing a platform for dialogue and learning for fathers who want to be more actively involved in their children’s lives.

“For me, being a father means truly being present – to laugh, to listen, to be there for the little moments that matter most. I’ve learned that love and time spent together are the greatest gifts I can offer my children,” said Alexei, a member of the Fathers’ Club who attended the event.

Family-friendly workplace policies represent another significant achievement in recent years. With the support of UNFPA and Austria, several companies from both the public and private sectors have established childcare spaces, making it easier for parents to balance work and caregiving responsibilities. At the legislative level, important measures have been implemented, including:

  • Shared parental leave between both parents, among others.
  • Extension of paternity leave to 15 days;
  • The possibility to work and earn income during maternity leave;
  • Introduction of flexible working hours for parents with children;

“All these initiatives reflect the Republic of Moldova’s strong commitment to creating a family-friendly environment for young families—one that is based on rights, equal opportunities, and that responds to the real needs of today’s parents. The State of World Population 2025 report, launched by UNFPA, shows that such policies help people realize their reproductive aspirations, including the desire to have more children. In the long term, this leads to a more demographically resilient society,” noted Karina Nersesyan, UNFPA Representative in the Republic of Moldova.

The event dedicated to the National Father’s Day was organized by the Parliament of the Republic of Moldova with the support of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), within the framework of the regional programme EU4GenderEquality: Together Against Gender Stereotypes and Gender-Based Violence (Phase II), funded by the European Union and jointly implemented by UN Women and UNFPA, in partnership with UNICEF, ILO, CIDDC, and the Moldcell Foundation.

EU mobile roaming benefits extended to Moldova and Ukraine as of 2026

On 25 July 2025, the Council adopted a decision to integrate Moldova into the so-called ‘Roam like at home area’ as from 1 January 2026. A similar decision for Ukraine was adopted on 14 July. Moldovans and Ukrainians in the EU and EU citizens in Moldova and Ukraine will thus be able to make calls, […]

On 25 July 2025, the Council adopted a decision to integrate Moldova into the so-called ‘Roam like at home area’ as from 1 January 2026. A similar decision for Ukraine was adopted on 14 July. Moldovans and Ukrainians in the EU and EU citizens in Moldova and Ukraine will thus be able to make calls, send texts and use mobile data without additional charges, just like in their home country.

The agreement also ensures consumers are entitled to the same mobile network quality and speed as at home and that contacting emergency services is free of charge.

The decision with regards to Moldova will support its gradual economic integration into the EU’s internal market, one of the goals of the 2016 association agreement. Currently, citizens and businesses already enjoy lower roaming charges thanks to an agreement dating back to 2024.

When it comes to Ukraine, a voluntary agreement between the EU and Ukrainian telecom operators was concluded in 2022  and ensures that Europeans and Ukrainians can already enjoy affordable, low-cost calls, texts and data. This agreement will stay in place until the end of 2025.

Next steps

The decision for both Moldova and Ukraine will enter into force on 1 January 2026.

Background

Since 2017, the Roam like at Home rules allow EU consumers, while travelling, to continue to call, text and use mobile data across EU borders at the same cost like at home, and with the same mobile network quality and speed.

Roam like at home rules
A digital future for Europe (background information)