Ten religious leaders are now better prepared to contribute to preventing and responding to domestic violence. This progress was made possible through a project implemented by the Social Mission “Diaconia” as part of the “EU 4 Gender Equality: Together against gender stereotypes and gender-based violence” programme (phase 2), funded by the European Union and jointly implemented by UN Women and UNFPA.

Throughout one year, the priests involved in the project participated in trainings and conferences on promoting gender equality and eliminating domestic violence, and later organized discussions with parishioners in ten communities.

On 15 October 2025, religious leaders, representatives of central authorities, international organizations and philanthropic partners gathered to reflect on the results of the project “Love for One’s Neighbour: Empowering the Religious Community to Prevent Domestic Violence in Rural Areas.” The event provided space to review activities undertaken, achievements, and future priorities for action.

“Through initiatives like this, we can prevent violence, bring hope and encourage those who are living through such situations to speak up. These projects support people facing real challenges, and by walking alongside them, we can find solutions together. Let us be, as the Saviour said, ‘the light of the world’ and ‘the salt of the earth.’ Let us guide through our example, so that good deeds may flourish. To reduce violence and its impact, each of us, in our respective roles, must help instill in young people, in families, and in children a Christian conduct worthy of the civilized world we live in,” said His Grace Veniamin, Bishop of Southern Bessarabia, in the opening remarks.

“We live a reality in which only one in ten women report violence, and every year more than 20 women are victims of femicide. For this reason, all our daily efforts seek to encourage more women and girls to report violence. Until we reach that point, we recognize the vital role of the Church in supporting survivors during moments of suffering,” noted Viorica Țîmbalari, General Director of the Agency for Preventing and Combating Violence against Women and Domestic Violence.

Julda Kielyte, Team Leader at the Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova, also underlined: “The lessons learned from this project come at a crucial time, as Moldova advances on the path to EU accession, where the protection of fundamental rights – including every woman’s and every child’s right to live free from violence – is essential. This is why the EU Growth Plan for Moldova places strong emphasis on expanding shelters and specialized services for survivors of violence, as well as establishing a national database to improve coordination and data quality”.

UN Resident Coordinator in Moldova, Yesim Oruc, highlighted: “The core mission of the United Nations is to prevent violence and maintain peace globally, and religion and faith pursue the same purpose – encouraging peace and respect for all human beings – women, men and children alike. This initiative aligns with the UN Secretary-General’s call to all religious leaders to be actively involved in peacebuilding efforts worldwide.”

Dominika Stojanoska, UN Women Moldova Country Representative added: “This initiative has demonstrated how important it is to collaborate with the Church, the institution with the highest level of trust among the population. The Church is also one of the few institutions reaching the most remote communities where support services are not accessible. Through the voices of priests and the activities carried out, key messages on preventing violence have reached more people”.

Karina Nersesyan, UNFPA Representative in the Republic of Moldova, emphasized: “Religious leaders are trusted voices and moral guides who can help challenge harmful social norms and promote relationships grounded in respect, compassion and dignity. That is why we encourage religious and community leaders to continue this effort in close cooperation with civil society, authorities and development partners.”

“We have taken an important step toward building a systemic response to domestic violence. Together with other Church entities and our partners, we are creating a support network capable of bringing guidance and assistance to every parish and community”, stated Igor Belei, Executive Director of the Social Mission Diaconia.

Key activities and results

During implementation, the project included several community-based initiatives aimed at strengthening the link between faith, family and the values of gender equality:

Conference “Family Under the Protection of Faith: An Interdisciplinary Dialogue on Domestic Violence”
Training of Trainers (ToT): “Domestic Violence and Addressing Stereotypes in the Light of Christian Orthodoxy”
Training of Spiritual Mediators
Community events “Family – Fortress of Love”

Project’s long-term impact

The project strengthened a network of priests better prepared to promote gender equality and prevent domestic violence, demonstrating that spiritual messages can become a powerful catalyst for social change.The Church is not only a place of prayer – it provides counseling, supports people in distress, stays close to families in crisis, and collaborates with local actors to offer real solutions.

This closing event does not mark the end, but rather the beginning of a continued mission: to sustain the daily commitment of the Church and local communities to support families, promote mutual respect, and help eliminate domestic violence.

This article is developed in the framework of the “EU 4 Gender Equality: Together against gender stereotypes and gender-based violence” programme (phase 2), funded by the European Union, implemented jointly by UN Women and UNFPA. 

A four-week Project Management and External Funding Acquisition training for professionals from the National Anticorruption Center, the National Integrity Authority (NIA), the Financial Investigation Unit (FIU), the Anticorruption Prosecutor’s Office (APO) and the Prosecutor’s Office for Combating Organized Crime and Special Cases (PCCOCS) started recently, within the EU-funded project “Moldova is Europe – Support for EU Integration”.

Over 16 training days, participants will engage in interactive sessions covering project planning, execution, monitoring, risk management, budgeting, reporting, and stakeholder engagement.

The initiative aims to strengthen institutional capacities in project management and external funding acquisition, supporting Moldova’s Reform Agenda and the upcoming Moldova Growth Plan. By enhancing strategic planning, policy management, and the implementation of donor-funded projects, the training contributes to good governance, transparency, and sustainable economic development.

The opening session was attended by Serghei Carapunarli, Deputy Director of the NAC, and Žydrūnas Bartkus, EU High Level Adviser on Anti-Corruption, Anti-Money Laundering & Asset Recovery and Management. Both delivered welcome remarks, emphasizing the importance of the training and its main goal to strengthen the capacity of Moldova’s anti-corruption and justice institutions to design, implement, and monitor effective projects that deliver tangible reform results.

The training is delivered by Angela Sirbu, an experienced Project Manager and certified trainer, who brings extensive expertise in governance, public administration reform, and donor-funded project management.

Training highlights include project cycle and results-based management (RBM), donor-funded project planning and financial reporting, risk, stakeholder, and performance management and integrating anti-corruption and rule-of-law objectives.

A total of 25 participants are expected to complete the programme, improving their capacity to design logical frameworks, manage risks, prepare donor-compliant budgets, and monitor implementation through results-based indicators.

At the end of the training, participants will receive a comprehensive training package in Romanian, including slides, exercises, and tools aligned with EU and international best practices.

Today, the European Commission adopted its annual Enlargement Package, presenting a comprehensive assessment of the progress made by the enlargement partners over the past twelve months. This year’s package reaffirms that the momentum for enlargement stands high on the priority agenda of the EU. It also confirms that the accession of new Member States is increasingly within reach.

Staying consistent and following a merit-based approach is key to successful EU accession. Montenegro, Albania, Ukraine, the Republic of Moldova, Serbia, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Türkiye and Georgia continue their respective paths towards the EU. The pace of their reforms, in particular in the areas of democracy, the rule of law and fundamental rights, directly impacts the speed of accession. These advancements benefit both aspiring Member States and current EU Member States, fostering prosperity, democracy, security and stability while unlocking new opportunities for citizens and businesses, such as strategic investments and opening of the Single Market.

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission said: “We are more committed than ever to turning EU enlargement into a reality. Because a larger Union means a stronger and more influential Europe on the global stage. But enlargement is a merit-based process. Our package provides specific recommendations to all our partners. And to all of them we say: EU accession is a unique offer. A promise of peace, prosperity and solidarity. With the right reforms and a strong political will, our partners can seize this opportunity.”

The assessments, accompanied by recommendations and guidance on the reform priorities, provide a roadmap for enlargement partners toward EU membership. The Commission remains fully committed to supporting future Member States in this journey. Gradual integration of the aspiring Members into the Single Market strengthens ties with the Union already before their accession. Significant progress has been achieved over the past year. With enlargement as a clear policy goal in this mandate, the Commission is committed to ensuring both the readiness of aspiring members as well as the EU’s preparedness to welcome them. To this end, a Communication on in-depth policy reviews and reforms will be presented soon.

To ensure that new Member States continue to safeguard and maintain their track-record on the rule of law, democracy and fundamental rights, future Accession Treaties should contain stronger safeguards against backsliding on commitments made during the accession negotiations. Effective communication, as well as countering foreign information manipulation and interference, including disinformation is a strategic imperative.

The Commission also stands ready to support Member States’ effort to further anchor public trust in
the process and help enlargement move forward with the legitimacy it needs.

Main conclusions
Montenegro has marked significant progress toward EU accession, closing four negotiation chapters
over the last year. Montenegro’s commitment to provisionally closing further chapters by the end of
2025 reflects its dedication to European integration. Maintaining steady progress on reforms and
seeking continuous broad political consensus are crucial for achieving the country’s target to close
accession negotiations by the end of 2026. Subject to maintaining the pace of reforms, Montenegro is
on track to meet this ambitious objective.

Albania has made significant progress, with four clusters opened over the last year. Preparations for
the opening of the last cluster this year are well advanced. Progress has been achieved on the
fundamentals, particularly on justice reform and in the fight against organised crime and
corruption. Continued efforts are now needed to meet the interim benchmarks under the
fundamentals, which will pave the way to start closing negotiating chapters once the necessary sector
reforms have been made. Achieving Albania’s goal of concluding negotiations by 2027 depends on
maintaining reform momentum and fostering inclusive political dialogue. Subject to maintaining the
pace of reforms, Albania is on track to meet this ambitious objective.

Despite Russia’s unrelenting war of aggression, Ukraine remains strongly committed to its EU
accession path, having successfully completed the screening process and advanced on key reforms.
Ukraine has adopted roadmaps on the rule of law, public administration, and the functioning of
democratic institutions, as well as an action plan on national minorities, which the Commission
assessed positively. Ukraine has met the conditions required to open clusters: one (fundamentals), six
(external relations), and two (internal market). The Commission expects Ukraine to meet the
conditions to open the remaining three clusters and works to ensure that the Council is in a position to
take forward the opening of all clusters before the end of the year. The Ukrainian government has
signalled its objective to provisionally close accession negotiations by the end of 2028. The
Commission is committed to support this ambitious objective but considers that, to meet it an
acceleration of the pace of reforms is required, notably with regards to the fundamentals, in particular
rule of law.

In the face of continuous hybrid threats and attempts to destabilise the country, Moldova has
significantly advanced on its accession path, successfully completing the screening process. The first
EU-Moldova summit in July 2025 marked a new stage of cooperation and integration. Moldova has
adopted roadmaps on the rule of law, public administration, and the functioning of democratic
institutions, which the Commission assessed positively. The Commission’s assessment is that Moldova
has met the conditions required to open clusters: one (fundamentals), six (external relations), and
two (internal market). The Commission expects Moldova to also meet the conditions to open the
remaining three clusters and works to ensure that the Council is in a position to take forward the
opening of all clusters before the end of the year. The government of Moldova has signalled its
objective to provisionally close accession negotiations by early 2028. The Commission is committed to
supporting this objective, which is ambitious but achievable, provided Moldova accelerates the current
pace of reforms. Sustaining reform momentum is crucial, reinforced by strong parliamentary support
for the country’s European path following elections in September.

The polarisation in Serbian society has deepened against the background of mass protests taking
place across Serbia since November 2024, reflecting disappointment of citizens over inter alia
corruption and the perceived lack of accountability and transparency coupled with instances of
excessive use of force against protestors and pressure on civil society. This has led to an increasingly
difficult environment where divisive rhetoric has led to a serious erosion of trust amongst the
stakeholders which, in turn, impacts the accession process. Reforms have significantly slowed down.
While acknowledging some recent developments, such as the relaunch of the procedure of selection of
the new Council of the regulatory body for electronic media (REM) and progress in the legislative
process on the Law on a unified voter register, which now need to be completed and implemented, as
well as a recent increase in alignment with the EU’s common foreign and security policy, which needs
to be pursued, more needs to be done. Serbia is expected to overcome the standstill in the area of
judiciary and fundamental rights overall and urgently reverse the backsliding on freedom of
expression and the erosion of academic freedom. The Commission assessment from 2021 that Serbia
had fulfilled the opening benchmarks for cluster 3 (competitiveness and inclusive growth) remains
valid.

North Macedonia continued its work on the roadmaps for the rule of law, public administration
reform, and the functioning of democratic institutions, as well as on the action plan on the protection
of minorities. Further swift and decisive action is needed on the opening benchmarks, in line with the
negotiating framework, with a view to opening the first cluster as soon as possible and when relevant
conditions are met. North Macedonia should intensify efforts to uphold the rule of law, by
safeguarding judicial independence and integrity, and strengthening the fight against corruption. The
Country also needs to adopt the necessary constitutional changes with a view to including in the
Constitution citizens who live within the borders of the state and who are part of other people, such
as Bulgarians, as outlined in the Council Conclusions of July 2022, which the country committed to
launch and achieve.

In Bosnia and Herzegovina, the political crisis in the Republika Srpska entity and the end of the
ruling coalition have undermined EU accession progress, resulting in limited reforms, namely on data
protection and border control, as well as the signature of the Frontex status agreement. On a positive
note, Bosnia and Herzegovina submitted in September 2025 its Reform Agenda to the European
Commission. Following recent institutional changes in the Republika Srpska entity, Bosnia and
Herzegovina has the opportunity to deliver on reforms on the EU path. To effectively start accession
negotiations, authorities must in the first place finalise and adopt judicial reform laws, in full
alignment with European standards, and appoint a chief negotiator.

Kosovo has remained committed to its European path, with a high level of public support. The delay in forming the institutions following the February general elections slowed down EU-related reform progress. Forging cross-party cooperation and re-prioritising these reforms is necessary for Kosovo to
get back on track of its EU path. Normalisation of relations with Serbia and implementation of Dialogue commitments remain an integral part of Kosovo’s European perspective. The Commission stands ready to prepare an Opinion on Kosovo’s membership application, if requested by the Council. The Commission has taken the first steps to gradually lift measures against Kosovo in place from May 2025. The next steps remain conditional on sustained de-escalation in the north. The Commission intends to further lift these measures provided an orderly transfer of local governance in the north is achieved following the second round of the local elections and de-escalation is sustained.

Türkiye remains a candidate country and key partner for the EU. In line with the European Council conclusions of April 2024, the EU has advanced relations with Türkiye in a phased, proportionate and reversible manner, engaging on shared priorities. The resumption of Cyprus settlement talks is a key element of cooperation. At the same time, the increasing legal actions against opposition figures and parties, alongside multiple other arrests, raise serious concerns about Türkiye’s adherence to democratic values. While dialogue on the rule of law remains central to EU-Türkiye relations, the deterioration of democratic standards, judicial independence, and fundamental rights has yet to be addressed. Accession negotiations with Türkiye remain at a standstill since 2018.

In 2024, the European Council concluded that Georgia’s EU accession process was de facto halted. Since then, the situation has sharply deteriorated, with serious democratic backsliding marked by a rapid erosion of the rule of law and severe restrictions on fundamental rights. This includes legislation severely limiting civic space, undermining freedom of expression and assembly, and violating the principle of non-discrimination. Georgian authorities need to urgently reverse their democratic backsliding and undertake comprehensive and tangible efforts to address outstanding concerns and key reforms supported by cross-party cooperation and civic engagement, in line with EU values. Following the December 2024 European Council Conclusions and in light of Georgia’s continued backsliding, the Commission considers Georgia a candidate country in name only. The Georgian authorities must demonstrate resolute commitment to reverse course and return to the EU accession path.

Next steps
It is now for the Council to consider today’s recommendations of the Commission and take decisions on the steps ahead in the enlargement process.

Background
Enlargement is a strict, fair and merit-based process, based on the objective progress of each enlargement country. The EU supports the strengthening of institutions, democratic governance and public administration reforms across these countries. By fostering gradual integration, the EU brings benefits even before the accession. Initiatives such as the €6 billion Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, the €1.9 billion Moldova Growth Plan, and the €50 billion Ukraine Facility allow countries advance in their reforms, as well establish stronger connection with the EU, such as through gradual integration and the participation in SEPA and “Roam Like at Home”.

Each enlargement has made our Union stronger. When ten countries joined the EU in 2004, it marked the Union’s largest ever expansion. In the two decades since, newcomers have seen living standards double, unemployment fall by nearly half, life expectancy rise from 75 to 79 years, poverty and social exclusion drop sharply, and 6 million new jobs created. For the existing members, trade has multiplied more than fivefold ever since, while 20 million jobs have also been created. For the EU as a whole, the Single Market gained 74 million new consumers at the time, and the EU economy has expanded by 27% despite global crises.

The EU Enlargement Package Report on Moldova is available here.

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 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.

Over one hundred young people from across the Republic of Moldova will gather in Chișinău on 12 November for EU Talks #MoldovanYouthForEurope: The Future Starts with Us — a youth-led dialogue exploring how Moldova’s new generation is shaping the country’s European future. The discussion will bring together active members of the EU Information Centres and Euro Clubs Network, young entrepreneurs benefiting from EU assistance, and youth participating in EU-funded education, innovation, and exchange programmes.

Empowering Moldova’s youth for a European future

The event will open with an interactive dialogue featuring Iwona Piórko, EU Ambassador to the Republic of Moldova, and Cristina Gherasimov, Head of the European Integration Bureau and Deputy Prime Minister. The conversation will focus on how young people can drive Moldova’s transformation — from civic engagement and education to innovation, sustainability, and community action. 

During the discussion, young participants will have the opportunity to address questions directly to the key speakers or share their own vision on Moldova’s European path, the role of youth in strengthening EU–Moldova relations, and the values that unite Europe’s young generation.

Inspiring examples of youth innovation

Part of the event will be the panel discussion “Young Innovators and EU Support”, showcasing inspiring success stories of young Moldovans who are turning ideas into reality with EU assistance. 

Oana-Marina Păun

Co-founder of Recycline, represents a new wave of green innovators. Her company transforms discarded PET bottles and plastic caps into unique jewellery and eco-friendly furniture — combining creativity with environmental responsibility.

Supported by EU-funded projects, she expanded production in 2024 with advanced recycling equipment, proving how sustainability and innovation can go hand in hand in building Moldova’s circular economy. 

Daniel Cebotari

As a Master’s student in Economic Sciences at Moldova State University, Daniel brings a European perspective gained through Erasmus+ academic exchanges in Bulgaria and Poland.

His international experiences have helped him foster a globally minded

academic and professional community upon returning to Moldova.

Marinela Macarenco

TEKEDU mentor coordinator: student at the Technical University of Moldova, majoring in IT. She joined TEKEDU as a participant, became a mentor, and now coordinates mentors and trains at FabLab.

Involved in STEAM on Wheels and GirlsGoIT, she guides youth in programming, electronics, and 3D modeling, promoting inclusion and inspiring girls to explore tech careers through EU-supported programs. 

Interactive learning and networking 

The event will conclude with an interactive EU quiz, moderated by the Young European Ambassadors, offering participants a chance to test their knowledge in a fun and engaging way while celebrating their shared European spirit. 

Building the future, together 

EU Talks #MoldovanYouthForEurope celebrates Moldova’s young changemakers — the innovators, volunteers, and entrepreneurs shaping the country’s European journey. Their enthusiasm and commitment continue to connect Moldova and the EU through shared values and a common vision for the future.

Are you a CSO, media outlet, or content creator in Moldova? Your story matters. We’re looking for you. GLOBSEC is managing a new grant call to support independent voices in Moldova -with priority for outlets serving vulnerable regions, particularly Gagauzia.

Introduction 

These guidelines provide detailed information for independent media outlets wishing to apply for financial support under this Call for Proposals. The funding aims to strengthen independent journalism in vulnerable regions of Moldova, with a particular focus on Gagauzia, and to counter the impact of FIMI, disinformation and foreign malign influence. 

Applicants are advised to read these guidelines carefully before preparing their proposals. Applications that do not comply with the requirements outlined in this document will not be considered. 

Objectives of the Call 

The overall objective of this Call for Proposals is to strengthen Moldovan society’s resilience to foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI) and to reduce the vulnerability of local communities—particularly in the regions—to external influence. 

The specific objectives are to: 

• Support independent media outlets in producing and disseminating high-quality, fact-based journalism. 

• Increase ​​​​coverage of FIMI​ incidents, awareness of FIMI,​ and media literacy issues through investigative reporting, multimedia productions, and social media engagement. 
• Enhance access to trustworthy information for citizens in vulnerable regions. 
• Encourage innovative storytelling approaches that engage young people and underrepresented groups. 

Eligibility Criteria 

To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria: 

• Be a registered media organisation in Moldova. 
• Have at least three years of continuous operation. 
• Maintain editorial independence and not be affiliated with political parties, government structures, or foreign state-controlled entities. 
• Have a proven audience reach of at least ​​50,000 people​ per month​ (e.g., through readership, website analytics, or social media). 
• Be committed to EU values (Article 2 TEU) and professional journalistic standards. 

Eligible Activities 

Proposals must focus on activities that contribute to the objectives of this call. Examples include: 

• Production of multimedia content (articles, videos, podcasts, infographics) on disinformation, media literacy, and factual reporting. 
• Investigative journalism addressing disinformation, foreign influence, or manipulation of local narratives. 
• Social media campaigns tailored to audiences in vulnerable regions. 
• Reporting on issues relevant to Gagauzia and other regions exposed to FIMI. 

Financial Support 

• Minimum grant per applicant: EUR 5,000. 
• Maximum grant per outlet: EUR 40,000. 
• Number of grants to be awarded: 5. 
• Period of implementation – from mid-January to maximum the end of September, followed by an additional two weeks dedicated to reporting.   
• Disbursement: ​​3 trenches (15% in February 2026, 45% in July 2026, 40% in October 2026), possibility of no-cost extension for the maximum period of 2 months 
• Eligible costs include staff, content production, dissemination, equipment, travel, and other direct project-related expenses. 
• Indirect costs (overheads) are allowed up to 7% of the total budget. 
• Co-financing not required but possible – the funding may compliment already ongoing projects funded by donors other than European Union 

Application Process 

Applications must be submitted by email to​​ opencalls.moldova@globsec.org no later than ​the end of ​November 23, 2025​​. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. Please use email subject line: “Media Grant Application – [Organization Name]”.  

Applicants must submit the following documents: 

1. Application Form – Submit as PDF. The template can be found on this page. 
2. Supporting documents: Registration certificate (scan signed by an authorized representative) 

Clarification Period 

Applicants may submit questions regarding the call and its requirements by email to opencalls.moldova@globsec.org until ​November 13, 2025​. Answers will be published on GLOBSEC’s websites to ensure equal access to information. An online clarification session will be organized on the same day, with the link redistributed to all interested applicants. 

Evaluation of Applications 

The evaluation will take place in two stages: 

1. Eligibility and Administrative Check: ensuring applications meet all formal and eligibility criteria. 
2. Technical Evaluation: conducted by an independent Evaluation Committee using a scoring grid. 

Applications will be assessed against the following criteria: 

• Relevance to the objectives of the Call (30%). 
• Outreach potential and expected impact (25%). 
• Innovativeness and creativity of the proposed activities (20%). 
• Relevant Experience (15%). 
• Feasibility and sustainability (10%). 

Only the highest-ranked applications will be recommended for funding. 

Contracting and Implementation 

Selected applicants will sign a grant agreement specifying activities, deliverables, financial terms, and reporting requirements.  

Beneficiaries will be required to submit: 

• Progress reports describing activities carried out and results achieved. 
• Financial reports documenting the use of grant funds, with supporting evidence. 
• Evidence of outputs (e.g., links to articles, analytics reports, campaign screenshots). 

Visibility Requirements 

All funded content must acknowledge EU financial support and follow EU visibility rules. Logos and disclaimers will be provided to grantees. ​​​​Derogation from contractual visibility obligations is permitted in exceptional situations. For example, security issues or local political sensitivities may make it preferable or necessary to limit visibility activities in certain regions or during certain periods. In such cases, a proper argumentation should be submitted for issuing EU visibility waiver.  

Timetable 

Project implementation: from mid-January to maximum end of September plus 2 weeks for reporting. 
Publication of the Call: End of October 
Clarification period: Until 13 November 
Deadline for submission: ​23​ November 
Eligibility and evaluation: by 8 December​     ​ 
Notification of results: ​8​ December 
Contracting: ​Mid​-December/ beginning of January 

This open call is supported by the EU Delegation in Moldova.

Through the EU4Business initiative, the European Union supports the development of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Republic of Moldova by providing funding, technical assistance, and innovation support. This aid has become a key driver for local entrepreneurs, helping them turn ideas into real projects, create jobs, and contribute to the development of their communities. Below are three success stories that illustrate the direct impact of EU assistance.

A new attraction for children in Ungheni

In 2021, Anatolie Cladicov, a young entrepreneur from Ungheni, opened a business dedicated to children’s entertainment — a flexible play space that adapts to seasons and holidays, featuring outdoor inflatable trampolines in summer and covered igloo areas in winter. In 2023, Anatolie received a €14,000 grant through the “EU4Moldova: Key Regions” programme, funded by the EU and implemented by UNDP and UNICEF. The funds were used to purchase a carousel, transforming his recreation centre into a regional attraction. His business has created new jobs and brought more life to the community.

“Once you achieve your first success and see your dream come true, you realise you can accomplish your goals much faster, more efficiently, and at a higher quality, with a bigger team,” says Anatolie.

EU support has given him the confidence to plan future expansions and attract visitors from nearby localities. [Read more HERE.]

Packaging from Răspopeni

In the village of Răspopeni, Șoldănești district, Cătălina Ioncu founded a family business in 2022, initially focused on plywood, glass, and wooden decorations. The business soon evolved into the production of custom cardboard boxes for confectioneries and small dessert producers. With the support of the “EU4Moldova: Local Communities” programme, implemented through the Local Action Group “Trei Coline,” Cătălina purchased a high-performance cardboard cutting machine, allowing her to diversify her products and expand even to international markets.

The production process became more efficient, and communication with clients improved — including through tutorials and guides for assembling packaging.

“The support of the European Union helps us keep dreaming. We want to stay here, in Moldova, and build something sustainable, beautiful, and useful,” says Cătălina.

Her business is a clear example of how creativity, perseverance, and the right support can turn a small village into a reference point for the international market. [Read more HERE.]

Smart farming in Slobozia

Veronica and Veniamin Bondarenco, from Slobozia village in Ștefan Vodă district, have devoted their efforts to local agriculture, managing 350 hectares of crops and a 12-hectare plum orchard. In 2024, through the “EU4Moldova: Local Communities” programme, implemented by the Local Action Group “Drumul Kizilului,” the family received a grant to digitalize their agricultural processes. The funding enabled them to purchase a modern weather station and develop a digital platform for monitoring crops and managing their business.

These technologies allow real-time tracking of soil conditions, temperature, and humidity, reducing the need for field visits and improving team coordination. Their harvest — wheat, corn, sunflower, rapeseed, and peas — is sold both on the local market and exported to the EU.

“We now have a modern website — very simple and convenient for our clients. They already know what we do and what we offer, and when they call, they know exactly what they need,” explains Veronica.

Their future plans include expanding the business and creating more jobs within the community. [Read more HERE.]

Context

The programmes, initiatives, and projects supported by the European Union and implemented through local partnerships aim to foster sustainable, smart, and inclusive regional development in the Republic of Moldova. They empower entrepreneurs and communities, contributing to job creation, infrastructure modernization, and enhanced economic competitiveness.

The success stories of Anatolie, Cătălina, and the Bondarenco family clearly show how EU support transforms ideas into real projects that bring tangible benefits to people across the country.

As part of the EU-funded project “Moldova is Europe – Support for EU Integration”, representatives of Moldova’s Office for Prevention and Dight against Money Laundering, accompanied by the EU High Level Adviser on Anti-Corruption, Anti-Money Laundering, and Asset Recovery, carried out a three-day study visit to Lithuania. The visit aimed to deepen institutional knowledge and practical understanding in two priority areas outlined in Moldova’s Growth Plan: the regulation of Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) and crypto-related risks, and the establishment of an AML Training Centre in Moldova.

The study visit was structured around a series of targeted meetings with Lithuanian institutions at the forefront of financial crime prevention, offering an opportunity to exchange experience, explore operational models, and build direct institutional partnerships.

On June 30, the delegation visited the Financial Crime Investigation Service (FNTT) in Vilnius, with discussions focusing on Lithuania’s experience in regulating and supervising VASPs, the role and daily operations of the Lithuanian FIU, and challenges arising from the increasing use of crypto-assets in financial transactions. Later the same day, the delegation travelled to Kaunas to explore the FNTT Competence Valley – a unique national hub for training and innovation. The Moldovan team was introduced to the structure and content of both internal and external training programmes offered by FNTT.

On July 1, the delegation held meetings with the Special Investigation Service (STT). The focus was on institutional integrity and capacity building, with demonstrations of two complementary e-learning platforms: the Integrity Academy– a hybrid, semi-virtual training environment – and the fully digital eLearning platform, both widely used to promote ethics and anti-corruption awareness within the Lithuanian public sector.

On July 2, the final day of the visit, the Moldovan delegation met with the AML Centre of Excellence in Vilnius. Operated under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, the Centre serves as a collaborative platform for financial institutions, supervisory bodies, and law enforcement. Discussions focused on the Centre’s governance structure, training activities, and cooperation with fintech and crypto companies. Participants exchanged views on the challenges these companies face in integrating into the Centre’s operations and becoming full members or active contributors.

This visit provided a valuable opportunity for practical learning and direct engagement with Lithuanian institutions implementing cutting-edge AML strategies.

The project team warmly thanks all Lithuanian counterparts for their openness and willingness to share their accumulated experience. Special recognition goes to the Moldovan FIU delegation for their professionalism, active participation, and commitment to making the most of a tightly packed and content-rich programme.

In the village of Slobozia, in the Ștefan Vodă district of Moldova, Veronica and Veniamin Bondarenco – a dedicated farming couple – made a bold decision to invest in their homeland rather than seek a future abroad. This choice, made five or six years ago, marked the beginning of an agricultural journey built on hard work, vision, and an openness to innovation.

Their first step was the purchase of 20 hectares of farmland. To be closer to their work, the couple moved to the village and gradually developed their agricultural business, which now spans over 350 hectares of crops and 12 hectares of plum orchards.

In 2024, with the support of the EU4Moldova: Local Communities programme, funder under the EU4Business initiative of the European Union and implemented locally by the Local Action Group “Drumul Kizilului”, the Bondarenco family received a grant aimed at digitalising their farming operations.

The project included the installation of a modern weather station, the development of a user-friendly website and a multifunctional digital platform, as well as the purchase of a laptop to help manage the business more efficiently.

“We have a modern, very simple and useful website for our customers. They already know what we do and what we offer, so when they call, they know exactly what they need”, Veniamin Bondarenco explains.

The website reflects their full range of services – from crop sales and land rental to home delivery, depending on quantity.

A core element of the project is the digital platform that allows the family to monitor each field remotely. It provides real-time data on soil conditions, supports mapping, and facilitates better-informed decisions. The weather station, linked to satellite and smart sensors, supplies precise updates on temperature, humidity, and wind.

“Now we can monitor everything from home. It’s incredibly useful, because before we had to physically go out to the fields to check the conditions”, Veronica Bondarenco adds.

The data is also key for coordinating their team. Workers located in different areas receive up-to-date information on the optimal time to start work in the fields.

Their current crops include wheat, maize, sunflower, rapeseed, and peas, with part of the harvest sold locally and the rest exported to the European Union. Thanks to the integration of smart technologies, the Bondarenco family can respond more quickly to market demands, cut operational costs, and increase the efficiency of daily tasks.

Looking ahead, Veronica and Veniamin plan to grow their business further, create more local jobs, and apply for a new grant to develop an irrigation system.

For the Bondarenco family, every step toward digitalisation has been more than an investment – it’s a statement of confidence in the potential of their village. They have chosen not shortcuts, but sustainable solutions that bring both purpose and progress. And as they look to the future, they see more than just cultivated land – they see a clearer path forward, where smart farming takes root and flourishes right here, at home.

On 17 July, a new training session within the ongoing capacity-building programme for interns of the two Internship Programmes brought together over 120 participants, eager to deepen their understanding of Moldova’s energy sector and to learn more about the practical aspects of the governance act. 

Alexandru Săndulescu, EU High Level Adviser on Energy, facilitated an engaging discussion entitled “The Energy Sector of the Republic of Moldova – Challenges and Opportunities,” providing valuable insights into the regional context, recent energy crises, efforts to ensure energy security and Moldova’s integration with the European energy market. In addition, Mr. Săndulescu delivered an inspiring talk on 10 Reasons to Work in the Public Sector, motivating young professionals to consider careers in public administration as a meaningful and impactful choice, for both their own professional growth and for the country’s European future.

Tatiana Rusu, Junior Expert in Energy held an interactive presentation on “Disinformation in the Energy Sector”, familiarizing the interns with real examples of how false or misleading information can shape public opinion and disrupt reforms, especially in critical areas like energy. Her session highlighted the importance of staying informed, thinking critically, and checking information sources.

The session concluded with Liliana Balan, Deputy Head of the Directorate for Relations with Parliament of the State Chancellery, who presented “How Governance Works in Practice: Government–Parliament Cooperation.” Interns gained first-hand insights into the legislative process and the interinstitutional coordination mechanisms behind effective policymaking.

Launched on 30 June, the joint Internship Programme of the European Union and the Government of the Republic of Moldova offers students and recent graduates from Moldova and abroad the chance to gain hands-on experience in central public authorities, working with civil servants and EU High Level Advisers. Alongside daily tasks, interns attend seminars and training sessions to lay the foundation for their theoretical knowledge and reinforce their practical skills. Upon completion of the two-month Internship Programme, graduates receive participation certificates and may qualify for civil service employment without competition or probation period, by completing an additional month of internship and applying within the same subdivision.  

In the village of Răspopeni, in Șoldănești district, a small family business with vision and passion is proving how creativity, perseverance, and European support can turn a simple idea into a recognised brand that reaches far beyond Moldova’s borders. This is the story of Cătălina Ioncu, the founder of a company that produces bespoke cardboard packaging for patisseries, confectioners, and small-scale dessert makers.

It all began in 2022, when Cătălina established a limited liability company (SRL) focused initially on creating handcrafted decorations from plywood, acrylic glass, and wood. However, responding to the growing needs of her customers and current market trends, she quickly pivoted towards a new product line: cardboard boxes for confectionery packaging.

“We create customised boxes for cakes and pastries. The most popular are for Bento cakes – especially 17×17 and 15×15 boxes. We also have special designs for macarons. If a client has a specific request, we can produce a new cutting die and a unique box model,” Cătălina explains.

To keep up with rising demand and streamline production, she applied for support through the EU4Moldova: Local Communities programme, funded under the EU4Business initiative of the European Union and implemented through the Local Action Group (LAG) “Trei Coline”.

Thanks to the non-reimbursable financial support, Cătălina was able to purchase a high-performance cardboard cutting machine. This investment significantly boosted her production capacity and allowed her to diversify her product range.

“With the help of the project, we bought a machine for cutting cardboard boxes. Now we can produce a wider variety of sizes and designs, much more efficiently. It was a big step forward for us,” the entrepreneur says. The quality of her products and her reliable customer service have attracted not only local clients but also international ones.

Customer communication plays a vital role in the business. For those who struggle with assembling the boxes, Cătălina provides support through video tutorials and illustrated guides. “We make sure every client knows how to assemble the box properly – it’s a small gesture, but it makes a big difference,” she explains.

Looking ahead, her ambitions continue to grow. Cătălina plans to purchase a machine to personalise the packaging and hopes to apply for more EU-funded grants to scale the business further.

“The support from the European Union allows us to dream bigger. We want to stay here, in Moldova, and build something lasting, beautiful, and practical. I encourage every aspiring entrepreneur to be brave and apply. It really does make a difference,” she concludes with optimism.

Cătălina’s business stands as clear proof that when passion meets perseverance and the right kind of support, great things can be built – even in the smallest of villages.

Anatolie Cladicov, a young entrepreneur from Ungheni, launched a children’s entertainment business in 2021, dedicating himself to its development with great passion.

The space designed for little ones can be adapted according to seasonal weather conditions. During the warm months, the area features outdoor inflatable trampolines, while in the cold season it transforms to celebrate the winter holidays with igloos and covered spaces.

Anatolie Cladicov received support through the EU4Moldova: Focal Regions programme, funded under the EU4Business initiative of the European Union and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), obtaining in 2023 financial assistance of € 14,000 used for purchasing a children’s carousel.

“I applied to the project to bring the carousel to Ungheni, creating a new point of attraction for the region,” says the young entrepreneur. “Such attractions are typically found in the largest cities around the world.”

Through his business, Cladicov has successfully created jobs and transformed Ungheni into a central hub, attracting children and parents from all over the region.

“Once you experience your first success and witness your dreams come true, you realize that it’s possible to achieve your dreams more quickly, more effectively, and with a larger team,” says Cladicov.

“Good things can certainly happen in the Republic of Moldova,” he adds. “We can create jobs and develop, whether we are in Ungheni, Briceni, Cahul, or in any other region of the country.”

Looking ahead, Cladicov plans to apply for further financing projects to enhance the recreational area and make it appealing not just for children from Ungheni, but also to those from neighbouring localities.

The “EU4Moldova: Focal Regions” Programme (2019–2024) supports intelligent, inclusive and sustainable socio-economic development in the Moldovan districts of Cahul and Ungheni to improve living standards for citizens.

The programme has a total budget of EUR 23 million, funded by the European Union under its EU4Business Initiative, which is implemented by UNDP and UNICEF.

The EU4LEIM project, led by CIVIPOL in partnership with the CPMA (Central Project Management Agency – Lithuania), aims to support Moldova in its alignment with European standards in terms of security and the fight against organised crime. Funded by the European Union, the programme supports Moldovan law enforcement agencies in their reforms, strengthens their operational capacity and promotes cross-border cooperation. 

The project is looking for an Administrator, Translator Assistant and Logistics and Administrative Assistant. All the specialists will be located in Chisinau starting 1st of March for the period of one year with possibility of renewal. 

The Administrator reports to the Team Leader. S/he will be responsible for:

• Logistical management of the project – Preparation and logistical, budgetary and administrative organization of the meetings/seminars/workshops of the project; – Administrative and logistical support to the project governance bodies (Steering Committee, coordination meetings, etc.).
• Financial management of the project – Monitoring of expenses and systematic archiving of data for verification of expenses; – Monthly accounting management and reporting to the headquarters: sending accounting documents, sending expenditure follow-up, cash flow follow-up and bank follow-up; – Accounting/invoicing, conscientiously filling cash registers and banks.
• Draw up a summary report of the financial elements and control of the expenses made and the requests for payment; – Coordination and supervision of public procurement procedures under EU funding. – All duties regarding the financial aspect of the project as may be assigned by the Team Leader.
• Administrative and financial management of the local office – Ensure the rapid and efficient deployment of the project team for operational purposes; – Daily management of the local office.
• Support to the technical and operational management of the project – Support the project manager in the technical and operational implementation of the project; – Support the project manager in coordinating the project with the actions of donors present in the region.
• Support the project manager in the programming and monitoring of activities; – Support the project manager in visibility actions. 

The Logistics Assistant reports to the Team Leader. S/he will be responsible to:  

• Assist the Team Leader and deal with all administrative and logistical aspects of the project. 
• Assist the Team Leader and main experts in the organisation of all activities and in the follow-up of the project.  
• Prepare and follow-up organization of the mission of Member State experts  To support the lead experts in liaising with the beneficiary administrations for the planning and implementation of activities.  
• Handle the calls, schedule the experts’ appointments, handle the official correspondence with the competent authorities.  
• Assist the lead experts in the preparation of the technical steering committees and other project coordination meetings. 
• Ensure the liaison and communication with stakeholders especially on bookings and accommodation. 

The Translator Assistant reports to the Team Leader. S/he will be responsible to:  

• Assist the Team Leader and main experts in the organisation of all activities and in the follow-up of the project regarding translation matters;  
• Assist the lead experts in the preparation of the technical steering committees and other project coordination meetings regarding translation matters;  
• All duties regarding translation aspects of the project as may be assigned by the supervisor.

Please send your CV and cover letter before February 28th, 2025 to the following contacts: 

Jean-François Puel : jean-francois.puel@experts.civipol.fr
Claire Avon : claire.avon@civipol.fr

The Embassy of the Slovak Republic in Moldova is offering two fully funded scholarships for students from the Republic of Moldova for the 2025/2026 academic year. The scholarships, financed by the Government of Slovakia, are available for both bachelor’s and master’s degree programs.

Priority Fields of Study:

• Teacher training and educational sciences
• Economics and management (excluding tourism)
• Environmental and Earth Sciences
• Biotechnology
• Agriculture and landscape
• Wood science and technology
• Forestry (excluding ecosystem services and forest technologies)
• Veterinary medicine
• General medicine (excluding medical biophysics, biochemistry, clinical and pharmaceutical biochemistry, neuroscience)
• Dentistry
• Pharmacy
• Medical sciences (excluding dental hygiene, physiological and clinical nutrition, physiotherapy, radiological technology, dental technology)
• Public health
• Nursing
• Mechanical engineering
• Civil engineering
• Cybernetics
• Electrical engineering and electronics
• Chemical engineering and technologies
• Food science
• Transport (excluding postal and logistics services)
• Mining and processing of natural resources
• Computer science
• Water resource management

Application Process:

• Deadline: 25 May, 2025
• Apply online: www.vladnestipendia.sk/en
• A complete applicant guide is available on the website.

Technical Support Contact:

• Email: helpdesk@studyabroad.sk
• Phone: +421 907 551 404

Please note: Upon arrival in Slovakia, students must present original copies of all documents to the International Relations Department of the Ministry of Education, Science, Research and Youth of the Slovak Republic.

Language of Instruction:

• Slovak
• A free Slovak language course will be offered from September 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026, at Matej Bel University in Banská Bystrica.

Scholarship Benefits:

• Monthly stipend: €540
• One-time payment at the beginning of studies: €200
• One-time payment upon completion of studies: €80

Estimated Living Costs:

• Accommodation in a dormitory: €105–133/month
• Meals and other expenses: €450–500/month

Initial Mandatory Expenses (covered by the student):

• Medical check-up for the immigration office: €130–169
• Interview for the entry procedure: €20–80

Additional Academic Stipend (from second year):

• For an average grade of 1.3 or better: €50/month

All expenses are covered by the Government of the Slovak Republic. Young people from the Republic of Moldova are encouraged to apply by May 25, 2025 here.

The Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova is organizing a study visit to Lithuania for journalists from the Republic of Moldova, scheduled to take place from 8 to 12 July 2025. Interested candidates are invited to submit their applications online by 4 June 2025.

Participants will have the opportunity to learn firsthand about Lithuania’s experience in the European integration process, the benefits of the EU’s democratic and socio-economic model, as well as European policies relevant to the Republic of Moldova. The program includes meetings with Lithuanian and European institutions representatives, visits to innovation and economic development centers, and interactions with the local press.

All participation costs – transport, accommodation, and meals – will be fully covered by the European Union.

The selection of journalists will be based on the application forms, which must be submitted online by 4 June 2025, 23:59, to the email address: media@bdr.md, with the subject line: “Study Visit – Lithuania.”

Eligibility requirements and selection criteria are detailed in the application form. Applicants must have experience in the media field and a demonstrated interest in European topics.

This initiative is part of a series of projects developed by the Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova to support the professional development of Moldovan journalists and encourage objective and well-informed coverage of European issues in the Moldovan media. Since 2015, the EU Delegation has been organizing such study visits, providing direct access to European best practices.

For more information about the project, please contact:

BDR Associates Communication Group
Violetta Iaroș
Mobile: +373 688 222 51 | Email: violeta.iaros@bdr.md

Corina Morozan
Mobile: +373 681 453 02 | Email: corina.morozan@bdr.md

The first edition of the European Commission’s EU Enlargement Forum will take place on 18 November 2025 in Brussels. The event, hosted by EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos, comes at a time when enlargement has gained renewed momentum as a driver of stability, prosperity and democratic reform across the continent.

Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine has profoundly changed Europe’s geopolitical landscape, underlining that the Union is stronger, more secure and more competitive when it stands together. For the first time in a generation, the prospect of a larger Union is within reach.

The Forum will bring together a broad and diverse range of participants under the slogan “Completing the Union, Securing Our Future”. High-level EU, national and regional leaders, civil society representatives, entrepreneurs, artists, youth voices and policy experts from EU institutions, Member States and enlargement countries will engage in dialogue. Designed to be interactive, inclusive and forward-looking, the Forum reflects a wider effort to bring enlargement closer to people and foster a truly European conversation about the future of the Union.

The Enlargement Forum will serve as the Commission’s flagship initiative to elevate enlargement as a shared political, societal and generational project. Enlargement is central to advancing the EU’s strategic interests, supporting economic growth and competitiveness, strengthening energy security, and anchoring reforms in governance and the rule of law. With the most ambitious enlargement agenda in over a decade, the Commission’s 2024–2029 strategic vision calls for moving from ambition to delivery with a credible, merit-based, inclusive and forward-looking approach that reflects Europe’s values and prepares it for the future.

Find more information about the Forum, including the programme, speakers, and registration link, click here.

Graduates holding a bachelor’s degree from the Republic of Moldova can apply for a scholarship to pursue a master’s programme at the College of Europe for the 2026/2027 academic year. The College of Europe has three campuses — in Bruges (Belgium), the Natolin district in Warsaw (Poland), and in Tirana (Albania).

The College of Europe in Natolin is offering scholarships for the following specialisations: European Economic Studies, European Law, European Political and Governance Studies, European Interdisciplinary Studies, EU International Relations and Diplomacy, Transatlantic Affairs, and European Transformation and Integration.

Eligibility criteria:
– completion of the first year of master’s studies and a bachelor’s degree with at least 240 ECTS credits (European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System);
– English language proficiency at level B2 and at least A1 in French.

To apply for the scholarship, candidates must register online and upload a file including: an updated CV, academic transcript (in the original language and translated into English or French), a motivation letter of at least 300 words, a scholarship application form, copies of diplomas, and any other academic achievements. The application deadline is 14 January 2026.

The selection process will take place in February–March 2026, and interviews will be held between March and May. All scholarships offered to candidates from Moldova are fully funded and cover tuition fees, accommodation and meals, two study trips, language and introductory courses, medical insurance, and access to all extracurricular activities provided by the College of Europe.

More details and the registration form are available on the official College of Europe website.

The Institute for European Policies and Reforms (IPRE) launches a call for expression of interest for the selection of four experts to support capacity building, toolkit development, and mentorship for Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in the field of home affairs reform and EU accession (Chapter 24), within the project “Strengthening civil society organizations in the Republic of Moldova to advance home affairs reforms and EU integration through engagement with the Ministry of Internal Affairs”, funded by the European Commission and IOM Moldova.

The project implementation period is July 2025 – October 2027.

This action aims to strengthen and empower civil society organizations (CSOs) in the Republic of Moldova to proactively engage with the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) in advancing home affairs reforms and supporting the country’s EU accession process. The project will contribute to improving democratic governance and public sector accountability in key areas such as security and migration.

The overall project objective is to enhance the role of Moldovan CSOs in supporting home affairs reforms, particularly in promoting transparency, policy coherence, and alignment with EU standards. The specific objective focuses on enabling structured collaboration between CSOs and the MIA in a more conducive environment, ensuring reforms in the security and migration sectors are inclusive and sustainable.

Objectives of the Assignment

The assignment aims to:

• Provide capacity-building training on home affairs reform, migration management, EU acquis alignment, and public policy engagement.
• Develop and disseminate a policy advocacy toolkit tailored to the Moldovan context.
• Provide mentorship to CSOs in the development of policy briefs addressing key reforms.

Key activities to be conducted by the selected experts

The project envisages hiring a team of 4 experts that would be involved in various tasks aiming at achieving the project objectives. The tasks are the following:

1. Developing modules for the capacity-building training program for civil society and policy experts. The training program will include 3 modules (1 day per module), covering the following topics:

• Module I: Structure and format of the EU accession negotiations related to chapter 24; State of play related to the accession negotiations related to chapter 24; key takeaways after the completion of the screening process.
• Module II: Strategic planning in public policy, Development of public policy proposals, Monitoring and Evaluation of public policies;
• Module III: Techniques and Methods of citizen participation in public life, Public communication – writing of op-eds and policy briefs;

NOTE: Cross-cutting themes such as gender equality, democracy, and good governance should be included.

2. Delivering the capacity-building training program for a group of 20 civil society and policy experts, focusing on specific case studies and interactive engagement among the participants.

3. Developing a comprehensive toolkit that will provide useful information and technical guidance on best practices and advocacy strategies to effectively engage with and support MIA at different stages of the policy development cycle, tailored to the context of the ongoing reforms in the Republic of Moldova. The toolkit is envisioned to serve as a practical resource for any CSO seeking to contribute to the support of MIA reforms, in the context of the EU accession process.

4. Providing continuous mentorship support to the CSO experts selected in the grants programme (a total of 8 CSOs, 2 CSOs will be assigned per mentor).

Qualifications and Experience

• Master’s degree in law, public administration, good governance, human rights, or other relevant field;
• At least 5 years of experience in developing, conducting analysis, monitoring and evaluation of public policies in the field of home affairs, justice, anticorruption, good governance, migration, human rights, or other relevant areas;
• Proven experience in conducting policy analysis and review of public policies;
• At least 4 years of experience in conducting of trainings and seminars on independent policy development, monitoring activities, public communication, policy dialogue and advocacy of public administration, home affairs and justice sector policies;
• Fluency in Romanian and English, (oral and written). Knowledge of Russian is an advantage.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills including public communication skills.

Application Procedure

Interested candidates are invited to submit the following documents by 21.11.2025, 23.59 (Chișinău time) to procurari@ipre.md

a) Technical offer:

• CV in English, indicating for what expert position/positions they are applying (recommended EuropeAid format);
• Methodology (i.e. general description of the implementation vision, which will include an indicative work plan for carrying out the tasks assigned to the expert position for which the candidate applies as per the ToR)

b) Financial offer:

• Proposed net daily rate in MDL (for a full 8-hour working day).

Detailed information regarding the main tasks, the application process and the evaluation criteria can be found in the Terms of Reference available HERE.

Clarification questions and requests for additional information can be sent via email to Ms. Victoria Nemerenco, Project Manager at: victoria.nemerenco@ipre.md.

Moldovan company PDG Fruct may have begun as a modest family fruit-growing business, but it has grown into a firm operating to international standards and exporting to EU countries. Born from a heartfelt ambition to build a local fruit production company from the ground up, it now has its sights set on expansion, innovation and long-term sustainability.

PDG Fruct is among more than 440 businesses to have received support from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and the European Union (EU). It has benefited from a joint programme that helps small firms match their ambitions with modern technology, enabling them to boost growth, efficiency and their competitiveness both domestically and abroad.

Bearing fruit

Zinaida Plămădeală, PDG Fruct’s administrator and export manager, still remembers the emotions of seeing the company’s produce on the shelves of local retailers for the first time. It was a moment of true validation and a source of lasting motivation.
“We were full of emotion, enthusiasm and hope, even though our harvest was modest,” she recalls.

The company started with strawberries and apples before eventually expanding into plums. Today, these fruits are grown near Moldova’s capital, in the villages of Păulești and Pitușca.

“For me, the most rewarding thing is to see our fruits delivered fresh and being appreciated on external markets, to feel that we are offering value to consumers and pride to our team,” says Zinaida.

Work at the company never stops: the land dictates the rhythm. Early summer brings strawberries and apples, followed by plums that last into late autumn. Then comes processing, marketing, distribution and exports, with the company now supplying several EU countries. Behind this success is a team of 30 dedicated young professionals, most of them locals.

Sowing the seeds

Ambition and determination alone are not enough to succeed in PDG Fruct’s field: modern agriculture also requires modern production methods. That is why the company turned to the EU4Business-EBRD Credit Line, a joint initiative of the EBRD and the EU that helps companies invest in higher standards and more efficient processes, helping to drive growth and long-term success. The programme provides EBRD loans through commercial banks, complemented by EU grants and technical assistance.

“We invested in automated sorting and packaging equipment not only for productivity, but also for sustainability, to reduce losses, guarantee quality, increase efficiency and to become a regional hub for other producers,” explains Zinaida.

The results speak for themselves: productivity has doubled. The company can now sort and pack about 36 tonnes of plums in just eight hours. Being able to offer consistent product quality has also opened doors to demanding international markets.

Looking ahead, PDG Fruct plans to expand its plum orchards, build a new storage and packaging hall and fully digitalise its operations.

“We believe in smart agriculture: connected to EU markets, based on sustainability and innovation,” Zinaida says. “Our ambition is to contribute to Moldova’s agriculture, increase exports, adopt modern technologies and strengthen our position among the top producers of plums and other fruits.”

Beneath these goals, it is PDG Fruct’s deep personal commitment that fuels its continuous growth – its desire to blend Moldova’s rich agricultural traditions with modern technologies to produce products that people everywhere can enjoy. As Zinaida puts it: “I still love ripe plums straight from the orchard the most.”

A recent study on the eight high schools retrofitted within the framework of the “Modernization of Local Public Services in the Republic of Moldova” (MSPL) project confirm annual savings of up to 60% of final energy consumption, and recovery of each investment by the savings only in a period of 9 to 16 years, depending on energy tariffs. 

Included in the list of beneficiaries in 2022, the “Constantin Spătaru” Theoretical High School in Leova district benefited from extensive rehabilitation works, worth 3.2 million euros, which significantly improved the energy efficiency and study conditions for the over 540 students, teachers and employees. The building of the institution was thermally insulated, new windows were installed, the heating, water and sewage networks were rehabilitated, and the cafeteria was equipped with modern equipment. At the same time, thermal comfort, air quality and general study conditions improved considerably, providing students with a safe and healthy environment.

In order to document the results of the energy audit and the impact of the implemented efficiency measures, the High School was visited by the Minister of Energy, Dorin Junghietu, together with the German Ambassador, Hubert Knirsch, EU and GIZ and other representatives.

“In terms of energy efficiency, the state must have the role of an example. And the “Constantin Spătaru” Theoretical High School, along with the other 7 schools, modernized with the support of the European Union and German Cooperation, are precisely such an example for communities. We have set a goal to make 0.8% of public buildings more energy efficient every year for the comfort of the population and employees, but also aiming for long-term economic effects – reducing energy consumption and bills, but also greenhouse gas emissions. Investing into energy savings pays back for the country very quickly.” said the Minister of Energy, Dorin Junghietu.

“The energy security and resilience of the Republic of Moldova is one of the key pillars of the European Union’s support. We want people to be able to live and work in comfort all year round, especially in the cold season. At the same time, our support is aimed at strengthening the country’s energy independence, so that the Republic of Moldova can no longer be subject to energy blackmail, but can develop freely and sustainably.

I am particularly pleased to see the highschool in Leova, renovated in 2023 with the financial support of the European Union and Team Europe, is today demonstrating tangible results: increased comfort for students and teachers, and significantly lower energy bills. Congratulations to all those involved in this project and in many other similar initiatives carried out with the financial support of the European Union throughout the Republic of Moldova,” declared the Ambassador of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova, Iwona Piórko.

“Today, we celebrate the positive impact energy saving measures have – and that they are an excellent investment into Moldova’s future. The Constantin Spătaru Theoretical High School shows how energy efficiency delivers concrete results — lower costs and better learning conditions for students. Germany remains a strong partner in these efforts, together with the EU and other development partners” said the German Ambassador, Hubert Knirsch.

“For GIZ, it is encouraging: The results of modernization of such a school shows that energy efficiency projects can be implemented successfully, with direct benefits for students, teachers, and municipalities. This success motivates us to continue accompanying Moldova, for example through enhanced energy management, and ensuring their impact across the country.” said the Head of Division Germany, Europe, South Caucasus, GIZ, Tilman Nagel.

Today, over 5,000 students and teachers in the Republic of Moldova enjoy modern, energy-efficient and environmentally friendly schools. The renovation story of the “Constantin Spătaru” Theoretical High School in Leova demonstrates that investments in energy efficiency do not only mean warmer buildings and lower bills, but also investments in the education, health and future of our children.

This achievement was part of a broader effort to modernize educational infrastructure throughout the country. In total, investments in the energy efficiency of educational institutions made through the MSPL project amounted to approximately 300 million lei. These investments pay for themselves in 9–16 years, depending on energy prices, and contribute in the long term to reducing the financial burden on public authorities while increasing the sustainability of the infrastructure.

“Thermal energy consumption has decreased by over 40% in the high school building, from 430 Gcal 10 years ago to 256 Gcal last year. At the same time, the number of students has doubled, reaching 573 this year. There are modern and attractive study conditions, the comfort in the classrooms is much superior, and the maintenance costs are lower.”, said the director of the “Constantin Spătaru” Theoretical High School in Leova, Dorin Marin. 

Building on these results, further multi-partner initiatives with Europe will continue to support Moldova’s path toward energy efficiency and sustainability, with Germany and others remaining an engaged and reliable partner in these efforts. Examples include the Initiative for the Development of Sustainable Public Infrastructure through Energy Efficiency Renovations (INSPIREE) program that provides for the renovation of 30 public buildings, including 16 higher education institutions (approximately 58,000 m²) and 14 district hospitals (approximately 34,000 m²), with a direct impact on the quality of services and the reduction of energy costs.  Energy for Moldova (E4M) project, which advances energy-efficient refurbishments and appliance upgrades at national, municipal, and household levels, strengthens local capacities, and contributes to lowering energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions.

Moldova Energy Efficiency Program (MEEP) focused in the first stage on 10 public hospitals, and later, on other social objectives, such as educational institutions. Another investment program is Sustainable Transition through Energy Efficiency in Moldova Project (STEEM) for energy renovation of 46 schools across the country.  

The European Union contributed to this programme through the project “Construction of water supply and sanitation infrastructure and energy efficiency in public buildings”, implemented by the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ Moldova) in partnership with the Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development between 2018 and 2024. For this project, the European Union allocated a grant of €39.8 million, supporting the improvement of essential public infrastructure and promoting sustainable development across Moldova.

Law enforcement professionals in the Republic of Moldova participated last week in hands-on training to strengthen their ability to investigate crimes involving digital currencies, including tracing illicit transactions and identifying blockchain-based assets.

From 12 to 16 May 2025, a specialized course on cryptocurrency investigations took place in Chișinău, delivered under the EU4Security Moldova project by the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Training (CEPOL).

The activity brought together Moldovan police officers, prosecutors, as well as officials from anti-corruption and financial intelligence units. It offered a practical and multidisciplinary approach to addressing this complex and evolving crime area. The course was delivered by experts from the Portugal Judicial Police, CEPOL, and Europol, with the support of the private sector. Representatives from Binance, Coinbase, and TRM Labs provided expert insights into cryptocurrency flows, showcased advanced analytics and investigative tools, and emphasized their close cooperation with law enforcement authorities in tackling blockchain-based criminal activities.

“We are witnessing an increase in criminal activities involving cryptocurrencies. Every investigated case is a challenge, as criminals have a wide range of tools at their disposal to carry out illegal activities. This specialized course provides crucial support to law enforcement by equipping officials with methodologies to identify suspects and deploy targeted investigative strategies,” said one of the course participants.

The course focused on strengthening Moldova’s capacity to investigate offences involving cryptocurrencies. Key topics included blockchain technology, the use of blockchain forensic tools, identifying and tracing illicit transactions and wallets, and improving cooperation with virtual asset service providers and international partners.

“Through this course, we are enhancing cooperation between Moldova and the European Union while building the operational skills needed to tackle cross-border and technology-driven crime,” said Florentin Dicu, CEPOL Project Manager, during the course opening.

This initiative aligns with the EU’s strategic security priorities, as outlined in the EU Serious and Organized Crime Threat Assessment (SOCTA 2025), which identifies the criminal use of digital assets as a major and emerging threat to internal security across Europe.

The KAS Sur-Place Scholarship Programme offers young people the opportunity to benefit from financial support, mentorship, and a tailored educational programme that enables them to focus on their studies while also developing personally and professionally. The programme aims to shape active young citizens who can contribute to strengthening democracy and continue their civic engagement.

The programme targets first- and second-year bachelor’s students enrolled in universities in the Republic of Moldova. Candidates must have excellent academic results, be actively involved in social and/or political life, share the Foundation’s values, and aspire to a career in public service, media, civil society, academia, or politics. Knowledge of English is required for participation in events with international speakers, and attendance at all trainings and events organized by the Foundation is mandatory throughout the programme.

The scholarship is granted for 12 months, with the possibility of renewal for one additional year. The selection process consists of two stages: evaluation of applications and interviews with shortlisted candidates. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted by email.

Applications must be submitted online only via the registration form by 30 October 2025. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Required documents include:

• CV in English;
• proof of student status (first or second year of bachelor’s studies);
• motivation letter in English (1–2 pages);
• scanned copy of the baccalaureate diploma and transcript;
• scanned copy of current academic records (except for first-year students);
• two recommendation letters: one from a professor whose course has been completed, and one from a person or organization confirming civic or political engagement.

Attachments can be sent only via a Gmail account; other submission methods will not be accepted.

Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) is a German political foundation with over 100 offices worldwide, dedicated to promoting liberal democracy, peace and freedom, transatlantic relations, and European values. In the Republic of Moldova, the Foundation focuses on strengthening democratic institutions and the rule of law, supporting the country’s European path, encouraging civic participation, and fostering a new generation of responsible leaders. The KAS Sur-Place Scholarship Programme is one of the Foundation’s initiatives that invests in building a new generation of engaged and responsible young leaders.

Are you between 16 and 26 years old? Become a member of the Young European Ambassadors network! The call is open for citizens from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, Ukraine, the EU, and the United Kingdom. Are you enthusiastic and interested in EU affairs and your country’s partnership with the EU? Do you want to contribute to the development of your country and community? Join the Young European Ambassadors (YEA) team!

What does it mean to be a YEA (Young European Ambassador)?

• Collaborate with young people from Europe and partner countries to exchange experiences.
• Take part in local and online activities: workshops, debates, vlogging, and social campaigns.
• Get opportunities to represent youth at the European level and engage in dialogues on key topics: environment, digitalisation, human rights, entrepreneurship.

“We are a vibrant network of volunteers from Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, Ukraine, the EU and the United Kingdom, running social campaigns. Our strength lies in our diversity and multiculturalism, which make us a truly unique and unstoppable community,” — Sara, Young European Ambassador from the EU.

“We raise awareness about EU cooperation and opportunities for young people! I love this network because it connects us and helps build friendships with other youth,” — Sofi, Young European Ambassador from Armenia.

“I truly believe in the impact of our united voice! We’ve managed to bring local communities across Europe closer, celebrate cultural diversity, and foster many lasting positive changes,” — Robin, Young European Ambassador from the EU.

Through this voluntary and non-political programme, young people become “ambassadors” of European values: they take part in international meetings, organise campaigns, workshops, and community events, and build stronger ties between Moldova and the European space.

Eligibility criteria:

• Citizen of the Republic of Moldova (or one of the listed partner countries)
• Aged between 16 and 26
• Good English communication skills and motivation for civic engagement

How to apply:
Fill in the application form on the programme website by 3 November 2025. The call is open under the EU NEIGHBOURS east project, with support from the EU Delegation. Access the registration form here.

The Institute for Development and Social Initiatives “Viitorul” (IDIS), with the financial support of the European Union (EU), has started implementing the project “Supporting Moldova’s public procurement reform in the EU accession context”, which will run from September 2025 to September 2026.

The project aims to develop a transparent, efficient, and aligned public procurement system in line with European standards, thereby strengthening good governance, public accountability, and citizens’ trust in state institutions, and promoting Moldova’s accession to the EU.

The project is aligned with the Republic of Moldova’s Growth Plan for 2025–2027 and with the commitments undertaken by our country in the process of accession to the European Union. Through the planned activities, IDIS “Viitorul” will support the Ministry of Finance, the Public Procurement Agency, the Center for Information Technologies in Finance, as well as other relevant stakeholders in the modernisation and implementation of public procurement reform.

The project provides support for the development of secondary legislation and the implementation of the National Program for the Development of the Public Procurement System and the Reform Agenda related to the Growth Plan of the Republic of Moldova for 2025-2027 by developing analytical documents and policy proposals, including for centralisation, certification and training of professionals in the field, as well as formulating recommendations for the modernisation of the electronic public procurement system (MTender). At the same time, the project will facilitate political dialogue and inclusive consultations through roundtables and meetings of the Public Procurement Monitoring Coalition and the National Platform for Public Procurement (NPPP), a participatory mechanism that brings together government institutions, civil society, and the business environment, where ongoing reforms will be widely discussed.

A significant emphasis is placed on increasing the level of information for the general public, through explanatory notes, infographics, newsletters, and regular updates on the PulsAchizitii.md portal, so that citizens and small and medium-sized enterprises have access to clear and easy-to-understand information on public procurement reform in the context of the Republic of Moldova’s accession to the EU.

“For several years, IDIS ”Viitorul” has been actively involved in the field of public procurement, monitoring the transparency and efficiency of processes, promoting legislative reform, and identifying practical solutions to improve the system. We are grateful that the European Union is providing us with the necessary support to ensure the sustainability of our actions, promote reforms, and adjust the national framework to the European Union acquis, at a crucial moment in the European path of the Republic of Moldova. It is an opportunity to strengthen institutions, support the business environment, and give citizens more confidence in how public resources is used,” said Carolina Ungureanu, deputy director of IDIS “Viitorul”.

Funded by the European Union with a budget of EUR 60000, the project “Supporting Moldova’s Public Procurement Reform in the EU Accession Context” is implemented by IDIS “Viitorul” between September 2025 and September 2026. Its goal is to build a transparent, efficient, and European standards–compliant public procurement system.

Over 150 volunteer firefighters and rescuers from across the country gathered on Saturday, October 18, 2025, for the fourth edition of the Volunteer Firefighters Festival in Gura Bîcului village, Anenii Noi district. The event was dedicated to the heroes who risk their lives for the safety of their communities — a day full of emotion and energy, featuring educational activities, thrilling competitions, an emergency response equipment exhibition, local product fairs, children’s entertainment, and plenty of good cheer.

During the festival, volunteer firefighting teams demonstrated their speed and teamwork in two exciting challenges: “Deployment from the Fire Truck,” which tested their coordination, and “Obstacle Course,” an individual trial of strength and endurance.

“In recent years, our understanding of volunteering has evolved. It’s no longer just an act of goodwill, but a mature form of civic participation — an expression of solidarity and a way of learning life skills. Volunteering means initiative, teamwork, and a sincere desire to contribute to the common good. These activities shape young people, teaching them to act decisively and believe in their own strength,”
said Minister of Internal Affairs Daniella Misail-Nichitin.

The event was organized by Solidarity Fund PL in Moldova, the General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, and Gura Bîcului Municipality, within the EU-funded project “EU4Resilient Moldova: Safe State, Strong Communities.”

“When disaster strikes, every minute counts — and volunteer firefighters are often the first to arrive. They are neighbors helping neighbors, citizens protecting their communities, people standing together when it matters most. Volunteer firefighters are the heart of resilience. That’s why the European Union invests in developing the volunteer firefighter network and strengthening the bond between citizens and civil protection institutions. Through this project, the EU invests in the safety of Moldovan citizens and in building local capacity to respond to emergencies,” highlighted Iwona Piórko, EU Ambassador to the Republic of Moldova.

The festival was also a celebration for the entire community. Visitors discovered stands with local products and handicrafts, while children enjoyed a special area with educational activities — workshops for making cardboard fire trucks, equipment exhibitions, virtual reality games, and a cheerful artistic program with music and fun.

Representatives from the State Fire Service of Poland also attended the event, sharing experiences in training, risk management, and community involvement in prevention efforts.

“Solidarity and civic spirit are the values that define volunteer firefighters — both in Poland and in Moldova. This festival, organized for the fourth consecutive year by Solidarity Fund PL in Moldova, shows that through international cooperation and sustained investment, we can build safer and more united communities,” said Tomasz Kobzdej, Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to Moldova.

Currently, there are 25 volunteer firefighter and rescuer stations active in the Republic of Moldova, with over 300 volunteers involved. To reach an average intervention time comparable to EU standards — under 15 minutes — the network needs to expand to at least 114 active rural stations.

The “EU4Resilient Moldova: Safe State, Strong Communities” project, funded by the European Union and implemented by Solidarity Fund PL in Moldova, includes the construction of 10 new volunteer firefighter stations, renovation of 10 others, and equipment of 35 units with modern tools. The total investment amounts to 44 million lei, provided by the European Union.

Moldovan businesses are set to benefit from greater access to finance as the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), in partnership with the European Union (EU), extends new financial packages worth a total of €22.5 million to three Moldovan banks under the EU4Business-EBRD Credit Line. The proceeds will be on-lent to Moldovan companies. 

The EBRD has signed agreements in Chisinau to lend €10 million to maib, €7.5 million to Victoriabank and €5 million to Eximbank. The agreements are backed by €3.4 million of EU grant funding.

Through loans and grants, the EU4Business-EBRD Credit Line supports a wide range of projects that increase the competitiveness and capacity of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) from countries such as Moldova, both in the EU and their home markets. EU4Business is an umbrella initiative of the European Union that includes all EU support to small and medium enterprises in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Moldova and Ukraine. 

The projects support investment financing for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in euros to upgrade their equipment, products and services in line with EU standards, increase competitiveness and grasp international trade opportunities. At least 70 per cent of the loans are expected to finance investments in green technologies.  

EU funding complementing the loans supports grant incentives on completed investment projects for the three banks’ borrowers, as well as project consultant implementation assistance to the banks and their clients.   

Moldova was granted candidate status to join the EU in 2023. This fresh financing will contribute to achieving the EU Growth Plan for Moldovatarget to support MSMEs in Moldova.  

MSMEs are critical for sustainable growth of the Moldovan economy, accounting for more than 98 per cent of all business in Moldova and employing 60 per cent of the country’s workers. 

Maib, Moldova’s largest bank with a more than 35 per cent market share in the country, is a longstanding EBRD client, partnering since 1995. Since 2018, maib’s largest minority shareholder has been a consortium of investors composed of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, Invalda INVL, an asset management group in the Baltics, and Horizon Capital, an Emerging Europe-focused private equity fund manager.    

Victoriabank is the third largest commercial bank in Moldova, majority owned by VB Investment Holding BV, which in turn is owned by Banca Transilvania (BT) Romania and EBRD. 

Eximbank, a medium-sized commercial bank in Moldova owned by Intesa Sanpaolo since 2018, is an existing and reliable EBRD partner

The EBRD is Moldova’s largest institutional investor. To date it has invested nearly €2.8 billion in 188 projects in the country.

Fifteen mayors from the Republic of Moldova, representing the EU-funded initiatives Mayors for Economic Growth (M4EG) and Covenant of Mayors, took part in the European Week of Regions and Cities 2025 (13-15 October), bringing Moldova’s perspective to Europe’s largest gathering of local and regional leaders.

The visit gave Moldovan mayors a chance to connect with European peers and see firsthand how EU cities are shaping inclusive and resilient communities. At the European Parliament and the European Commission, the delegation learned about best practices of municipal financing, project preparation, and EU approaches to cooperation with local authorities.

“This is an opportunity to build partnerships. Every community has its unique challenges but seeing how European peers address theirs helps us shape solutions that fit Moldova’s realities,” noted Rodica Munteanu-Croitor, Mayor of Hîrbovăț village, Anenii noi district.

“Partnerships make us stronger. When we share experiences openly, our communities benefit faster,” said Maria Manoli, Mayor of Zubrești village, Strășeni district.

“This visit was about perspective, seeing how others approach and tackle similar challenges give us clearer steps at home,” said Vadim Lelic, Mayor of Telenești town.

‘’During a series of high-level meetings, we understood that local authorities play a very important role in this process: from coordinating and adopting European cohesion policies to training employees to absorb development and alignment funds,” mentioned Rodica Russu, mayor of Telița commune, Anenii Noi district.

Such exchanges with European partners are equipping Moldovan municipalities with fresh ideas and practical tools for planning and delivering local development. The study visit also reinforced key principles such as subsidiarity, proportionality, and local autonomy showing how they can be applied back home.

Mayors for Economic Growth (M4EG) is an EU-funded initiative implemented by UNDP that supports municipalities across the Eastern Partnership to strengthen local economies and improve public services through people-centered, practical solutions. 

The pandemic has sparked business ideas for many, including Iulia Cernobrivcenko from Tiraspol. While on maternity leave, Iulia literally tailored a family business together with her mother. Although they have different professions, Iulia being an economist and her mother a seamstress, this combination proved to be successful as they opened a sewing atelier in Tiraspol called Fatin.  

“We sewed masks in large quantities and took on many orders. Then we moved on to individual orders and, little by little, we realized that we had to do something else. We realized that we can do more,” says Iulia. 

“The idea came to us after my daughter went on maternity leave. I was sewing custom orders at home because I am a costume designer at a local theater. I have experience. I simply suggested it to my daughter because I wanted to ensure a more stable financial future for her. She takes care of the financial part, and I take care of the practical one. And so, we slowly began to grow,” adds Victoria Pirogova, Iulia’s mother. 

The Business HUB in Tiraspol – the “school” for future entrepreneurs  

To set the business in motion, Iulia first started following the activities of the Business HUB in Tiraspol, the first center in the region for entrepreneurship support and development, created in 2022 with the support of the European Union’s Confidence Building Measures Programme, implemented by UNDP. By participating in HUB’s events, Iulia managed to integrate into the community of future entrepreneurs and gained not only courage but also the skills to launch her business. 

“After some analysis, we found that our doctors spend half their lives at work. They need comfortable, high-quality clothing that ensures their well-being and comfort. That’s how we started working from home. We only had two sewing machines and we took on any order we received. Now we can already be proud of what we have achieved,” says Iulia. 

From two sewing machines to a fully equipped workshop

In 2024, with financial support of approximately €17,000 from the European Union, Iulia expanded her business, transitioning from a makeshift workspace at home to a modern workshop equipped with high-performance machinery. 

This investment allowed her to create jobs and carve out a niche in the market. Now, her workshop produces work uniforms for beauty professionals, food service staff, and healthcare workers. 

“We received equipment such as linear sewing machines and overlock machines, without which our work would be impossible. They enable us to produce high-quality medical and protective equipment thanks to the special seams they create. The equipment includes a zigzag sewing machine, a piping sewing machine, a professional embroidery machine, along with a steam generator and an ironing table,” explains Iulia. 

Galina Bezprozvannaia joined Iulia’s team a year ago, having worked for a large company in the textile industry: “The equipment is good. For me, as a seamstress, the machines are very important for sewing products quickly and to a high standard.” 

Workshop development and investment plan for automation

In addition to equipment and business management mentoring, Iulia also receives support in creating the company’s visual identity, helping her to position herself effectively  on the market. She is currently preparing a specialized catalog that will showcase the products created in the workshop.

Looking ahead, Iulia is planning new investments in equipment that will automate processes and optimize the workshop’s operations.  

Supporting young entrepreneurs and the business environment is part of a broader effort by the European Union and UNDP to build trust and promote economic development on both sides of the Nistru River. The total value of the support provided for the development of the business environment is over €529,000.

The Business HUB in Tiraspol was created with the support of the European Union’s Confidence Building Measures Programme, implemented by UNDP Moldova in 2022.