Moldova has demonstrated strong political commitment to advancing its European Union (EU) accession process. However, the country continues to face significant challenges, including widespread corruption, a weak rule of law, low public trust in institutions, and ongoing hybrid threats from Russia. While important reforms are underway, stronger civic participation and effective public oversight are essential to ensure that these reforms lead to lasting and meaningful progress. This project aims to strengthen democratic governance and support Moldova’s alignment with EU values by empowering civil society actors to actively participate in and monitor the accession process. To achieve this, the project will provide training, peer learning opportunities, and financial support to local civil society organizations. It will also promote collaboration between civil society, independent media, academia, and public authorities by creating platforms for dialogue and engagement in reform processes. In addition, the project will support initiatives that encourage civic participation and enhance public understanding of EU integration. By addressing barriers to participation, fostering cooperation among key stakeholders, and supporting locally driven solutions, the project will contribute to more transparent, accountable, and inclusive reforms. Ultimately, it seeks to ensure that Moldova’s path toward EU membership delivers tangible benefits for its citizens.

Overall objective: Reinforced democratic participation in Moldova and strengthened alignment with EU values by empowering civil society to monitor and engage in the EU accession process.
Specific objective 1: To enhance CSO capacity to monitor, inform, and contribute to reforms - particularly strengthening legal frameworks related to rule of law, human rights, and freedom of expression.
Specific objective 2: To foster a resilient, informed, and interconnected civic sector capable of constructive engagement with public authorities.

1. At least 20 civil society representatives strengthened skills related to strategic communications and leadership and increased their knowledge on legal frameworks governing freedom of assembly and association, electoral rights, freedom of expression and media, in the context of EU accession processes, and are equipped to train others on these topics.
2. At least 50 locally and/or regionally operating (grass roots) CSOs increased knowledge of EU accession procedures and strengthened skills and technical capacity related to lead local reform monitoring and advocacy.
3. Institutionalised consultation frameworks for policy dialogue between CSOs and public authorities established including regular roundtables and consultations with the Bureau for European Integration.
4. Established partnerships and coalitions between CSOs and other stakeholders in Moldova and between Moldovan civil society and their European counter parts enhanced coordination and increased opportunities for input of smaller/ locally operating CSOs.