Major investment opportunities are opening up in Moldova. The European Commission has launched a Call for Expressions of Interest for private investment, inviting businesses from the European Union, the European Economic Area (EEA), and Moldova to take part. Unveiled earlier this month, the initiative will be further explored during a dedicated information session at Moldova Business Week 2025.

The Call, which requires a minimum investment of EUR 10 million per project, is designed to drive growth and support new  investments in Moldova. It will be the central focus of the “Investment funding in Moldova: Unlocking capital for growth” session on 19 September, where European Commission experts will outline its objectives, explain how businesses can apply, and highlight the opportunities available. The session will also feature an interactive Q&A, enabling participants to raise specific questions, share insights, and gain practical guidance on how to engage.

The event is expected to gather around 150 representatives from the business community and international financial institutions. To ensure wider access, those unable to attend in person will be able to join online, as the session will be livestreamed on the EU Delegation’s social media channels and on Pivesc.eu, starting at 13:00 CET.

The Call is an integral part of the EU’s Growth Plan for Moldova, a comprehensive economic and political support package designed to stimulate the country’s growth and advance its convergence with the EU. With up to EUR 1.9 billion in financial assistance, the Growth Plan supports key reforms to improve the business environment and make Moldova a more attractive destination for investors. Building on this foundation, the Call seeks to channel private investment into strategic sectors such as energy, agriculture, industry, digital/IT, transport, logistics, and healthcare. Eligible projects must include at least 15% own equity from the project promoters.

To reduce risks and attract private investment, the EU and partner Financial Institutions are offering comprehensive support package that includes financial guarantees through the European Fund for Sustainable Development Plus (EFSD+), loans and investment capital on favourable terms, technical assistance and other support measures.

The launch was officially announced on 4 September at the Digital Park in Chișinău, in the presence of Marta Kos and Moldovan government leaders, with representatives from the business community, international financial institutions, and the diplomatic sector. As Moldova, an EU candidate country, takes further steps to strengthen its access to the Single Market, this initiative opens up unique opportunities for businesses looking to be part of the country’s dynamic growth path.

For more information, visit the dedicated page: Call for expressions of interest for EU/EEA/Moldova-based businesses to invest in the Republic of Moldova – European Commission.

EU-funded Twinning “Strengthening the institutional capacities of the Competition Council to enforce the competition and state aid policy in line with the EU best practices” (Twinning Reference MD 23 NDICI FI 01 24 (MD/40) is seeking to recruit Language Assistant to the Resident Twinning Advisor.

The above-mentioned project is implemented in close cooperation between the Competition Council of the Republic of Moldova (MCC) (as the beneficiary), the Romanian Competition Council (Lead Member State partner), the Competition Council of the Republic of Lithuania (CCLR) and the Office of Competition and Consumer Protection (UOKiK) (Junior Member State partners).

The general goal of the Twinning project is to enhance the internal market in Moldova by facilitating the effective implementation and enforcement of Competition and State Aid policies in line with the EU-Republic of Moldova Association Agreement, relevant European acquis, the EU Integration process, and international agreements and ensure fair competition, foster market integrity, and safeguard consumer welfare in the Republic of Moldova. The specific objective of this Twinning project is to strengthen the capacities of the Competition Council to enforce the competition and state aid policy in line with commitments taken by the Republic of Moldova in the framework of the EU integration process.

The project started on the 1^st of October 2024 and has a 27 months implementation period.

Within the project, many activities are carried out such as expert missions, seminars, workshops, study visits and internships, drafting legislation, strategies and implementation plans etc. Therefore, a project Resident Twinning Adviser (RTA) from Romania is stationed in Chisinau. The project RTA is looking for a qualified RTA language assistant.

Under the guidance of the Resident Twinning Adviser (RTA) and in cooperation with her counterparts in MCC, the RTA language assistant is expected to carry out the following duties:

Office of the RTA / task division:

The Resident Twinning Adviser (RTA), an officer of the Romanian Competition Council (RCC) – carries out the daily coordination of the project, together with her Moldovan counterpart in cooperation with the Project Leader from Romania and his Moldovan counterpart. The RTA is assisted by two local assistants, one RTA assistant and one RTA language assistant. The RTA focuses on the overall coordination and content of the activities, and the evaluation of the progress of the project, while the project assistant and language assistant will take care of the project administration, logistics, translation, and interpretation. The RTA assistant focuses on the project administration, logistics, drafting minutes, etc. while the RTA language assistant focuses on translation and interpretation. However, both assistants need to be able to replace and assist each other when necessary.

Job description:

Under the guidance of the Resident Twinning Adviser (RTA) and in cooperation with her counterpart in MCC, the RTA Language Assistant is expected to carry out the following duties:

• To support the RTA, Project Leader (PL) and short-term experts (STE) with language-related tasks in the execution of their responsibilities to deliver the project objectives, including the preparation of the documents needed in support of their missions;
• To translate project documentation, including legislation documents, papers, presentations, training materials and promotional materials;
• To conduct consecutive and/or simultaneous interpretation in meetings, workshops, study visits and other project activities to support the RTA, PL, and STEs.
• Perform all other duties assigned by the RTA, e.g., cooperate and work with the RTA Assistant in daily management of the project-related activities.

Profile of the candidate:

The successful candidate should have the following qualifications:

• A relevant University Degree in English Philology and/or experience with the translation and interpretation not less than 5 years;
• Fluent in oral and written Romanian and English;
• Strong intercultural and social competencies;
• Very good computer skills (MS Office package, Internet);
• Good listening skills;
• Able to work as an individual contributor and within a team environment;
• Very good communication skills, enabling to communicate and collaborate effectively with all levels of employees and outside contacts;
• A high degree of independence, initiative and flexibility, discretion, and professionalism.
• Previous experience in at least one EU funded-projects, preferably as RTA Language Assistant in a former Twinning project, or in another equivalent international project.

The following skills will be considered an asset for RTA Language Assistant:

• Experience of working in an international environment;
• Additional training, specialization, post-graduate studies will be considered as an advantage;
• Knowledge of competition and State aid terminology in English.

The RTA Language Assistant will be employed full-time and stationed in Chisinau. The RTA Language Assistant cannot have or recently (past six months) have had any contractual relation with the beneficiary administration (Competition Council of the Republic of Moldova) or any other Moldovan public sector administrations.

Duration and remuneration of the contract:

• duration: 15 months, till 31st of December 2026 (start date: October 2025)
• full-time (40 hours per week)
• (gross) salary: 1500 € per month
• contract type: fixed term service contract.

The RTA Language Assistant will be based at Competition Council of the Republic of Moldova 1, Blvd. Alecu Russo, Chisinau, Republic of Moldova. He/she will report to the Resident Twinning Adviser.

The interested candidates are requested to submit their CV (in Europass format) and a letter of application in English by the 30^th September 2025 via e-mail to the following address: tw@competition.md.

Shortlisted candidates only will be invited to attend an interview. The date and place of the interview will be additionally indicated to the shortlisted candidates. The following documents should be annexed in scanned versions to the application:

• References from previous employer(s) if it is available.
• Certificate in educational qualification;
• Certificate of language knowledge (if it is available);

Do you believe honesty, respect, and conscious choices are the key to a united community? Then show us your vision through original creations.

The contest “Integrity Unites Us” invites participants aged 55+ or intergenerational teams (grandparents, parents, grandchildren).

What does the contest include? You can choose from three categories:

• Video sketch “Integrity in Action” – a clip of up to 3 minutes showing a conscious choice in everyday life.
• Slogan for integrity – short, memorable, and inspirational (up to 12 words).
• Poem “A Story in Verse” – up to 12 lines or a video/audio recital of max. 2 minutes.

Prizes include:

• Certificates for all participants;
• Phones/tablets for winners;
• The best entries will be published online and promoted between 17–26 September.

Deadline for registration: 15 September 2025. Entries should be sent via email to bunicafest@gmail.com (or via WeTransfer/Google Drive for larger files). Let’s build the story of integrity together and show that conscious choices unite us and strengthen our communities!

The contest is organized by AO “CASMED”, with the support of the project “Resilient Democracy through Tackling Corruption” (REDACT), implemented by UNDP Moldova and funded by the European Union. The content of this material is the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily reflect the views of the UN, including UNDP, its member states, or the European Union.

On the occasion of its 8th anniversary in the Republic of Moldova, representatives of the Women Police Association expressed their gratitude to the EU Ambassador to Moldova for the support provided by the European Union. This meeting with external partners was one of the first in which Iwona Piórko participated in her capacity as EU Ambassador to Moldova.

The Association was created in 2017, at the recommendation of the EU Delegation, in the context of implementing the EU-funded Police Budget Support programme, with the objective of increasing the number of women in the police. Today, the Association has over 300 women as members.

The European Union has always supported the personal and professional development of women in Moldova, encouraging them to engage in social life, politics, and entrepreneurship. Today’s meeting carried a double symbolic meaning, as Iwona Piórko is the first woman to serve as EU Ambassador to the Republic of Moldova.

Background information

Over its 8 years of activity, the Women Police Association (WPA) has organised training sessions on gender equality, prevention of workplace harassment based on sex/gender, and prevention of discrimination for staff across all subdivisions of the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) in five regions of Moldova (Bălți, Chișinău, Ungheni, Comrat, and Cahul).

The WPA carries out motivational and inspirational activities for female students at the “Ștefan cel Mare” Academy of the MIA – future women police officers.

The Association has also developed two guides – on sexual harassment prevention and Introduction to Project Management – as well as a study identifying the training needs of MIA staff. It also has accredited experts in areas such as communication and public relations, professional ethics, project management, gender equality, leadership, and more.

The WPA has received two international awards:

• Second place among 29 participating countries at the World “Women in Security Sector” Conference, held in Budva, Montenegro, in 2024.
• Public Choice Award among 19 participating countries at the same conference in 2019.

In 2023, the WPA successfully signed numerous collaboration agreements with national and international organisations and institutions, including the Women Police Associations of Montenegro and Ukraine, the International Police Association – Moldova Section, the European Institute of Political Studies in Moldova, and the Women in Cybersecurity Programme. This autumn, the Association plans to sign an agreement with the Association of Women in Justice and Prosecution.

For the first time in the Republic of Moldova, in March 2025, the WPA organised a Dialogue on Leadership and European Values – hosted by the Women Police Association with the support of the Embassy of Sweden in Chișinău and DCAF – which took place at Europe Café.

The panel brought together the Ambassadors of Sweden, Japan, Denmark, and the Chargé d’Affaires of the Norwegian Embassy in Chișinău, who discussed: the essential role of women in building a democratic and safe society; international support for gender-sensitive reforms in the internal affairs sector; European values integrated into security systems; and the importance of collaboration between institutions and civil society.

The Team Europe initiative ‘Sustainable Food Systems’, which aims to increase the resilience of the agri-food sector in the Republic of Moldova, will help farmers better cope with external shocks and climate-related challenges. With a budget of €8.5 million, funded by the European Union and the Czech Republic, the four-year project will introduce state-of-the-art solutions and proven European practices to modernize agriculture and strengthen rural communities.

By addressing the vulnerabilities in the country’s agri-food sector, the project will be focused on integrating innovative farming techniques, business development, and institutional capacity-building processes. It foresees to implement proven European practices, such as soil laboratory testing and safe use of biocides, or building a digital Organic Agricultural Register, as well as expert, farm and industry knowledge and experience exchange and cooperation.

“Only through such a comprehensive and multilateral approach, we manage to answer the needs of those that aim at the development of the sector, of the farmers to become more resilient and to integrate into the value chains, and simultaneously to enhance the capacities and digitalize the domain”, said Ina Butucel, Deputy Secretary of the State, Ministry of the Agriculture and Food Industry.

By bringing together innovation and international cooperation, the initiative lays the groundwork for a more sustainable, resilient, and competitive agri-food sector in Moldova.

“This Team Europe Initiative ‘Sustainable Food Systems’ confirms the EU commitment to concrete support of farmers and businesses to become more competitive and resilient – adapt to climate change, adopt sustainable practices, access new markets and prepare for the integration into the EU single market”, stated Adam Grodizcki, Deputy Head of Cooperation, European Union Delegation to the Republic of Moldova.

The launch of the ‘Sustainable Food Systems’ project brought together over 40 representatives of national and international organizations, underscoring the strong interest in how this €8.5 million investment could transform Moldova’s agri-food sector – making it stronger, more resilient, and sustainable for the future.

The Team Europe initiative ‘Sustainable Food Systems’ is financed by the European Union and Czech Republic, and implemented by Czech Development Agency, Solidarity Fund PL in Moldova, and Latvian Rural Advisory and Training Center. The initiative, with a budget of € 8.5 million, will be implemented over four years, by June 2029.

Vulnerable people in Cobîlea, Șoldănești district, now have access to a new free social service. With financial support from the European Union, a social laundry was opened in the village, where more than 150 vulnerable residents will be able to wash and dry their clothes in decent conditions.

The laundry is equipped with washing machines, high-performance dryers, ironing tables, and new furniture. All equipment was purchased to ensure a quality service tailored to the needs of the most vulnerable members of the community. At the same time, within the project, two jobs were created at the social laundry in Cobîlea.

The inauguration event was attended by representatives of the European Union, local public authorities, donors, and community members.

“This social laundry is a project close to our hearts and a concrete example of how we can bring visible changes to people’s lives. We want every person in our community to feel supported and respected, especially those going through hard times,” said Angela Ababei, Mayor of Cobîlea.

“For the European Union, people are at the heart of every project. The social projects we finance are not only investments in infrastructure, but also investments in people, in their dignity and well-being. We are glad to be part of this initiative that brings an essential service into the life of the Cobîlea community. It is important to us that every citizen, regardless of their financial situation, feels that they have support and are not left behind. The European Union will continue to support such initiatives, which provide practical and humane solutions for communities in the Republic of Moldova,” underlined Martina Spernbauer, Team Leader, Cooperation Section, Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova.

The development of the social laundry in Cobîlea is the result of a project implemented by the civil society organization Bella Getica, in partnership with the local mayor’s office. The project, financed by the European Union, contributed EUR 31,000, supplemented by the mayor’s office with about 60,000 MDL.

After the project’s completion, the service will be taken over and managed by the Cobîlea mayor’s office, which will ensure its continuity and sustainability.

The project “Promoting CSOs as Partners in the Development of Resilient Social Services” is funded by the European Union, co-financed and implemented by a consortium of three civil society organizations: Keystone Moldova, Dorcas Foundation Moldova, and the Association for Education “Neoumanist.” Within the project, regional CSOs, in partnership with local public authorities, created and developed 16 social services in 16 communities (social laundry, personal hygiene, and socialization services) dedicated to vulnerable people.

As a result of the project’s implementation, more than 1,500 people in difficult socio-economic circumstances (low-income individuals, unemployed, pensioners, single-parent families, and homeless people) are now benefitting free of charge from the services provided by social laundries (laundry, personal hygiene, and socialization).

On September 11–12, the coordinators of EU Information Centers and Euro Clubs from across the country gathered to plan activities for the upcoming period.

Autumn is the perfect time for new beginnings. After spending the summer working side by side with the young generation in content creation workshops, it was now time to sit down with the team of Euro Club and EU Information Centers coordinators from all over the country to chart the way forward.

Dedicated to fostering European dialogue, participants came together for two days full of ideas, experience sharing, and future planning. Activities included:

• One-minute retrospective – each coordinator shared their most successful activity and the key lesson learned during the promotion of EU values in their community.
• Workshop on planning activities for the coming period.
• Discussions on how to make events more visible, better coordinated, and closer to communities.
• Practical exercises for drafting model plans for 2025–2026.

Each working day ended with an informal networking session, where good ideas continued to circulate in a relaxed atmosphere.

On September 4, 2025, Cineplex Loteanu hosted the premiere of “Mario, Maria, Marinel”, a production by OWH Studio directed by Violeta Gorgos. Screenings will continue in the Cineplex and Happy Cinema chains until September 27.

“Mario, Maria, Marinel” tells the story of Maria, who lives a quiet life with her son Marinel, waiting for her husband who works abroad. The return of Felicia, a childhood friend and soprano in Vienna, together with her husband Mario, disrupts the family’s peace. The film is a story about destinies, the cycle of life, and the place of women in the family and in society. It portrays the life of a family divided by migration between two worlds, reflecting social pressures and the inner struggles of its characters, in a world where “times are always the same.” It is a sensitive creation, inspired by real life, that explores themes such as honor, prejudice, and a mother’s devotion.

The film’s launch was accompanied by a press conference where the creative team and cultural representatives shared their emotions and reflections on the journey of this production.

Director Violeta Gorgos emphasized the importance of the team’s involvement: “My sincere thanks to everyone who took part, and especially to the actors who put their hearts and souls into this film. This is a film that must be seen. I am deeply grateful to everyone who was part of it.”

Actor Radu Ghilaș added: “I invite you to this film, which is one hundred percent a local product — without pesticides, without additives. It is Moldovan, it is Romanian. We invite everyone to the cinema halls.”

Soprano Valentina Nafornița, making her debut as an actress, spoke about her personal experience: “For me, it was an honor to receive the invitation to join the team. (…) I wanted this challenge, to act, but to act differently! Because acting in front of the camera requires different skills than those used on stage, where I am accustomed to performing. I am grateful for this opportunity and for the chance to savor this experience, which I enjoyed so much.”

The film was made with the financial support of the National Center of Cinematography of the Republic of Moldova, in co-production with Fix Media. The premiere and film distribution are supported by UN Women Moldova and the Embassy of Sweden.

During 11-13 of March, about 20 representatives of the Environment Protection Inspectorate and the Environment Agency participated in an introductory training on REACH and CLP, delivered by Swedish experts Cecilia Westöö and Lisa Ekstig from the Swedish Chemicals Agency KEMI, together with representatives of the Ministry of the Environment.

The training aimed to provide participants with a clear and explicit understanding of the alignment of national legislation with the European Union regulations on the Evaluation, Registration, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH), as well as the Classification, Labeling and Packaging of Chemicals and Mixtures (CLP), thus facilitating the acquisition of the necessary expertise in the field.

During these days, the experts focused on describing the requirements for sustainable management of chemicals (such as the basic elements of the regulations, alignment, implementation, responsibilities, measures for the correct application of the legislation, sanctions, etc.), including presentations, case studies and interactive discussions. At the end of the training, participants were offered certificates of participation.

The activity launched a training cycle that begins within the framework of the EU-funded Twinning project “Air Quality and the Environment”, Component C4: Sustainable Management of Chemicals, aimed at strengthening the institutional capacities of the collaborators of the Ministry of Environment, the Environmental Agency, the Inspectorate for Environmental Protection and other public entities responsible for the management of chemicals.

Elegant colors and delicate gestures, every glance, shadow, or ray of sunlight carries meaning — this is the universe of Elena Bria presented in the exhibition “Arcadia”, now open to the public at Europe Café.

Elena Bria is a young artist from the Republic of Moldova. She paints exclusively from nature and live models – a rare practice that requires presence, patience, and a special sensitivity.

Her works have been exhibited in major art centers such as Italy, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Now you have the chance to discover her artistic world at Europe Café, Monday to Friday, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Free entrance.

We thank our friends at Cartego for their support and for providing the artworks that made this exhibition possible.

On 5 September 2025, EU Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos met with representatives of religious communities in Moldova. Religion and traditions are an integral part of the country’s identity and remain a key foundation for building a strong and united society.

European integration supports the culture, traditions, and identities of local communities across the EU. It creates more opportunities for their preservation, as Europe is home to people of diverse religious faiths.

Christianity remains the largest religion, deeply rooted in the culture, values, and identity of Europeans. Around two-thirds of Europeans identify as Christians, of whom roughly 10% are Orthodox Christians.

At the same time, in difficult times, religious communities play a vital role in promoting unity, hope, and care for the most vulnerable. Commissioner Marta Kos discussed these issues with representatives of religious communities in Moldova. Metropolitan Vladimir of Moldova and Metropolitan Petru of Bessarabia, along with other religious leaders from the country, took part in the meeting.

In Moldova, the EU has also supported, over the years, the restoration of monasteries and cultural-historical sites of spiritual value, such as Căpriana, Țîpova, and Vadul lui Rașcov. Together with Christian organizations, the EU has contributed to the establishment of the first social canteens and food banks, providing daily assistance to the most vulnerable.

The EU and the Church share common values – dignity, peace, solidarity, and compassion – values that serve people and society, not political parties or geopolitical interests.

Between 28–31 August, the Orthodox Youth Gathering took place in Cahul. More than 235 young men and women from the Republic of Moldova and Romania came together to share experiences and promote fellowship and mutual respect.

Over four days, participants engaged in spiritual, cultural, artistic, and educational activities. Topics discussed included the promotion of gender equality and the fight against harmful stereotypes.

On the second day of the camp, several priests from the Metropolis of Bessarabia organized thematic workshops for participants, such as: “Family – God’s Gift,” “The Values of a Healthy Family: How to Choose and Preserve Them,” and “Equality and Respect: The Foundation of a Successful Marriage.” Discussions with the youth also focused on promoting the Christian model of healthy and harmonious relationships, the role of the Church in family counseling, and education for the prevention of violence. Participants were encouraged to actively engage in civic life and to contribute to building family relationships based on respect, responsibility, and mutual support. Representatives of local authorities and academia also attended the event.

The activity was organized within the framework of the program “Together Against Gender Stereotypes and Gender-Based Violence” (Phase II), funded by the European Union and jointly implemented by UN Women Moldova and UNFPA. Responsibility for the program’s content lies with the Social Mission “Diaconia.”

As part of the EU-funded project “Strengthening the rights of minorities in the Republic of Moldova” on 15-16 July 2025, UN Human Rights organized the training “Developing successful project proposals: from an idea to a finished proposal,” in Holercani.

The training brought together 20 human rights defenders and activists from both banks of Dniester/Nistru River who work to promote and protect the rights of minorities. The training was aimed at improving their ability to develop and present effective project proposals to donors. The two-day training combined theoretical insights with hands-on exercises, guiding participants from idea formulation to full project design. Sessions explored donor expectations, SMART results and indicators, budgeting, sustainability, and added value presentation. Practical group work, peer exchanges, and case-based discussions ensured an interactive and engaging learning environment.

Building Knowledge and Confidence The training helped participants strengthen their understanding of the core elements of project development and donor engagement. Most participants noted that they gained a clearer vision of how to structure proposals, formulate objectives, and link activities to measurable results. As noted by one participant representing a Roma CSO: “Now I will be more thoughtful about how to formulate objectives and problems.”

Participants emphasized that the training’s practical focus boosted their confidence and highlighted the usefulness of clear proposal structuring, risk identification, and budget planning. They valued interactive exchanges, peer learning, and practical tools for aligning applications with donor expectations. “We covered a lot of important topics, but it would be beneficial to allocate more time to the most complex ones. I was particularly interested in the SMART approach to results and indicators”- one of the participants noted.

The participant noted that civil society needs to strengthen its capacity to present its achievements to donor partners and to carry out fundraising for its activities. Participants expressed interest in learning more about approaches to writing project proposals for specific donors and mentoring on real proposals.

This training demonstrates UN Human Rights’ continued commitment to supporting civil society organizations in Moldova by equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills to secure funding, strengthen their projects, and promote human rights, equality, and inclusion throughout the country.

The amount of electricity compensation granted to Moldovan entrepreneurs by the European Union through the Organization for Entrepreneurship Development (ODA) has exceeded 87 million lei between January and August 2025. This support is part of the Compensation Programme launched by the Government of the Republic of Moldova with EU financial assistance.

Overall, 1,055 businesses received support under the programme, of which:

• 550 via the Organization for Entrepreneurship Development (ODA) – 2,160 applications paid, amounting to over 87 million lei;
• 505 via the Agency for Intervention and Payments in Agriculture (AIPA) – 1,674 applications paid, amounting to over 23.8 million lei.
  

The programme will remain active throughout 2025, and entrepreneurs can submit applications entirely online – either through the EVO app or via the MCabinet platform.

To better meet the needs of the business environment, the programme was adjusted during implementation. The most important changes include:

• extending the application deadline from 10 to 30 days;
• removing the 3% eligibility threshold, allowing more beneficiaries to access support;
• extending the programme for the entire year 2025 (initially, it was planned for only three months).
  

Full information about eligibility criteria, required documents, and application steps is available here: https://tinyurl.com/547zckxa

The Republic of Moldova is opening its doors wide to strategic investments. The European Commission, in partnership with the Government of the Republic of Moldova, today announced to the domestic and international business community new opportunities and tools to support investments in the local market.

Specifically, this is a call for expressions of interest in investments, addressed to all companies from the European Union, the European Economic Area, and the Republic of Moldova. Both foreign investors and local entrepreneurs, as well as members of the diaspora wishing to participate in the transformation of the national economy, are welcome. The announcement was made by Prime Minister Dorin Recean, European Commissioner for Enlargement Marta Kos, and Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Economic Development and Digitalization Doina Nistor.

“The European Union supports Moldova not only through reforms, but also through concrete investments. With this call, we are opening a door for European and Moldovan companies to work together to develop a modern economy integrated into the European single market,” emphasized Marta Kos, European Commissioner for Enlargement.

What Does the European Union Offer? Through this call, the European Union provides investors with a comprehensive support package:

• Financial guarantees from the European Fund for Sustainable Development Plus (EFSD+) — to facilitate access to capital, attract private investment, and make possible projects that would otherwise be considered too risky;
• Loans and investment capital on favorable terms;
• Technical assistance for the preparation of projects with public impact.

The goal is clear: to make investments in Moldova attractive, secure, and competitive, in parallel with the implementation of the EU Growth Plan for Moldova.

The Six Key Areas Where Moldova Awaits Investors:

• Energy and green transition
• Agriculture and agri-food, including rural tourism
• Industry and advanced manufacturing
• IT, digital innovation, and applied research
• Infrastructure and connectivity
• Health and digital health

What’s Next?
The call is open until 4 of May, 2026. To be eligible, projects must have a minimum value of 10 million euros, and the investor must provide at least 15% of their own contribution to the total investment. Companies can express their interest through the European Commission’s platform, and proposals will be reviewed in the order they are received by evaluation committees that will meet quarterly, starting in December 2025.

The National Bank of Moldova (NBM) and the EU-funded project “Moldova is Europe – Support for EU Integration,” organized a seminar on strengthening corporate governance in the banking sector. The event was attended by more than 70 representatives of bank management.

The main lesson was the need to develop and implement policies and procedures regarding the assessment of the suitability of members of the management body and key function holders in banking institutions in the Republic of Moldova.

In her intervention, Anca Dragu, Governor of the National Bank of Moldova, emphasized the importance of compliance with the highest standards: “Strong corporate governance represents an essential pillar for the stability and credibility of the financial system. By applying European standards, we ensure the prudent management of banking institutions and, implicitly, protect the interests of depositors and the economy.”

During the event, the importance of clear evaluation criteria such as honesty, integrity, and independence of mind, was emphasized, as well as the collective experience and competencies of the management board.

The EU High Level Adviser on Financial Services, Nicolae Grigore, presented best supervisory practices from the European System of Financial Supervision, highlighting the need to allocate adequate human and financial resources for the onboarding and ongoing training of management body members and key function holders.

The seminar placed particular emphasis on the provisions of EU Directive 2013/36/EU on access to the activity of credit institutions and the prudential supervision of credit institutions and investment firms, as well as the European Banking Authority’s & European Securities and Markets Authority Guidelines on internal governance.

The event provided a framework for constructive dialogue between the NBM and representatives of the banking sector, contributing to the strengthening of transparency and accountability. This effort is essential in preparing the Moldovan banking system for full integration into the European Union.

In a world where traditional norms and gender stereotypes still heavily influence relationships and opportunities, young people in the Republic of Moldova are becoming increasingly aware of their role in building an inclusive and fair society, actively promoting respect, challenging prejudice, and preventing violence in relationships.

International Youth Day, marked annually on August 12, is an opportunity to celebrate the contribution of the younger generation in addressing inequalities that persist in society. Thanks to the support of the European Union, over 300 young people from across Moldova are now better equipped to identify common gender stereotypes and, through competitions and interactive activities, contribute to promoting gender equality in their families and communities.

These activities were carried out as part of the second phase of the EU4GenderEquality: Together Against Gender Stereotypes and Gender-Based Violence programme, funded by the European Union and jointly implemented by UN Women and UNFPA. The initiative, which covers the Eastern Partnership countries (Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine), aims to challenge gender stereotypes and harmful social norms, including by engaging young people as drivers of change.

Gender Equality: Between Statistics and Perceptions

A survey conducted among participants of the first phase of the EU4GenderEquality programme revealed that most young people advocate for equal rights and opportunities, viewing gender equality as beneficial both for individuals and for society at large. At the same time, participants were less likely to agree with the misconception that more rights or jobs for women would mean fewer opportunities for men.

In numbers: 75% of young programme participants believed that men and women should equally share family and household responsibilities (compared to 60% among non-participants). Similarly, the perception that career advancement is more important for men than for women was less common among participants (16%) compared to non-participants (33%).

Positive progress in gender equality is also confirmed by international reports. In 2025, the Republic of Moldova ranked 7th in the Global Gender Equality Index, climbing six places compared to the previous year. According to the report’s authors, this significant leap was largely due to progress in political participation (+7.5 p.p.) and economic opportunities (+1.6 p.p.).

These figures are supported by changes in perceptions observed during discussions with young people. Today’s youth are less likely to accept phrases like “boys don’t cry” or the idea that “women must take care of the home and children” without questioning them. They understand that stereotypes not only limit individual potential but also perpetuate a culture of inequality and abuse.

More and more young people are also able to recognize the signs of toxic and unhealthy relationships — such as control, emotional manipulation, lack of communication, or disrespect for personal boundaries. At the same time, they are learning to value positive behaviours like mutual respect, emotional support, responsibility, and the freedom to express one’s thoughts and feelings.

Promoting Gender Equality Starts with Education

Gender equality, along with other healthy values, needs to be instilled from an early age, with education playing a crucial role. In Moldova, under the second phase of the EU4GenderEquality programme, youth-focused initiatives are being implemented through the project “On the Path to Gender Equality – Overcoming Barriers and Promoting Respect”, carried out by the NGO Institutum Virtutes Civilis.

The project included 10 community discussion sessions in five schools in Căușeni and Ștefan Vodă districts, with the participation of 343 students. During these discussions, young people explored concepts related to gender equality, discrimination, and gender-based violence, including in the online space. They also shared their reflections on the impact of gender stereotypes and proposed ideas for overcoming them.

In addition, more than 100 students took part in the “Act for Gender Equality” contest, where they identified and proposed creative solutions for challenging stereotypes and building relationships based on respect and empathy.

From Awareness to Action: The Young Generation Driving Gender Equality

Promoting healthy and balanced relationships is no longer a taboo subject for the new generation. On the contrary, young people want safe spaces for open dialogue where they can talk about their experiences, what respect in a relationship means, and how to recognize abusive behaviours that have long been normalized.

They know that flirting should never cross personal boundaries, that jealousy is not a sign of love, and that communication and consent are fundamental in any relationship. Instead of repeating harmful patterns, young people are choosing to challenge outdated norms and promote gender equality so that everyone can enjoy equal rights and opportunities — at home, in school, at work, and in society.

This information material was prepared under the second phase of the programme “Together Against Gender Stereotypes and Gender-Based Violence”, funded by the European Union and jointly implemented by UN Women and UNFPA. The content of this material is the sole responsibility of UN Women and UNFPA and does not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.

The European Commission has disbursed an additional €18.9 million to Moldova under the Reform and Growth Facility, reaffirming EU’s steadfast support for the country’s reform path. At the same time, and in view of the significant progress made by Moldova in its reform efforts, the EU launches a call for businesses to invest in the country.

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission said: “Moldova continues to deliver on its reforms agenda and demonstrate its commitment to the European path. I am very happy to see continued progress in reforms of key areas, such as electricity energy security. Investing in Moldova’s economic growth is an investment in European Integration. Because a strong Moldova contributes to a stronger Europe. The EU is committed to supporting Moldova every step of the way on its EU path.” The Commission approved the disbursement after having assessed that Moldova has fulfilled four reform indicators tied to the bi-annual payment schedule under the Reform and Growth Facility. Key achievements include the development of open and competitive electricity and gas markets, as well as measures to guarantee energy security.

The €18.9 million comes on top of the €270 million in pre-financing already provided this year. Moldova is set to receive up to €1.9 billion in grants and loans under the Facility for 2025-2027. Moldova continues to make progress on EU accession reforms in areas such as justice, anticorruption, and the fight against organised crime. These advancements demonstrate Moldova’s commitment to shared EU values, including democracy and the rule of law, and ensure that EU funds are invested effectively for the benefit of Moldovan citizens. The Commission launches Call for Expressions of Interest to boost investment in Moldova.

The European Commission has launched a Call for Expressions of Interest, encouraging businesses from the EU, EEA, and Moldova to explore investment opportunities in the country. As an EU candidate country, with the support of the Growth Plan, Moldova is enhancing its access to the Single Market, providing unique opportunities to businesses. The initiative aims to build a pipeline of transformative private investments in Moldova that could receive support from the European Commission and partner financial institutions, such as the European Investment Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.

Background
In October 2024, the European Commission proposed a Growth Plan for the Republic of Moldova, worth €1.9 billion and underpinned by a Reform and Growth Facility for 2025-2027. It is the largest EU financial support package for the country. Between 2021 and 2025, the EU has allocated over €1.2 billion in grants to Moldova. This includes direct budget support for energy security and the clean energy transition, assistance to 1.2 million households to cope with rising electricity bills, and support for reforms in the justice sector aimed at strengthening its independence and improving efficiency.

For More Information
Growth Plan for Moldova – Factsheet – European Commission
Factsheet on the EU and Moldova

On the first day of the new school year, September 1st, around 60 young people took part in an EU Talks #YouthForEurope session with Glenn Micallef, European Commissioner for Intergenerational Fairness, Youth, Culture and Sport.

The event took place in an informal, interactive setting at Valea Morilor Park. We spoke “the language of youth,” with a DJ set in the background, bicycles promoting a healthy lifestyle, and a lively, upbeat atmosphere.

The session opened with welcoming remarks, followed by a public dialogue and a Q&A session with the Commissioner, where young participants asked questions about:

• youth education and intergenerational fairness;
• career opportunities in sports, culture and the arts;
• access to EU programmes dedicated to young people.

Participants had the chance to share their perspectives, while the Commissioner underlined the importance of civic engagement and active participation in European programmes that foster personal and professional development.

To conclude, Commissioner Glenn Micallef met with Nicolae Juravschi, President of the National Olympic Committee, as well as international and European champions who proudly represented the Republic of Moldova in recent sporting competitions.

The Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova continues to stand by young people, bringing Europe closer through dialogue, opportunities and support for ideas that transform communities.

The Internal Protection and Anti-Corruption Service (IPAS) of the Ministry of Internal Affairs has received two state-of-the-art drones worth over 430,000 MDL. These devices will strengthen IPAS’s operational activities and special missions aimed at enhancing internal security and institutional integrity. The donation was made under the project “EU4Moldova Resilience: Secure State, Resilient Communities”, funded by the European Union and implemented by Solidarity Fund PL in Moldova. 

The two drones are equipped with extended flight autonomy, high-resolution cameras, and thermal sensors, making them suitable for complex aerial surveillance, documentation, and rapid intervention missions, including at night or in challenging conditions. 

“In the medium and long term, integrating drones will significantly increase operational efficiency, enabling faster and more successful investigations, particularly in cases requiring extensive surveillance or detailed visual documentation. This new equipment represents a strategic investment, aligned with modern trends in special investigations and with the current needs of the service, opening new perspectives for future activities,” said Dorin Vrednic, Head of IPAS. 

With financial support from the European Union, Solidarity Fund PL in Moldova will continue equipping institutions under the Ministry of Internal Affairs. By November 2025, more than 1,750 protective and rapid intervention equipment items will be provided to institutions responsible for civil protection and national security. 

“These drones will support the Internal Protection and Anti-Corruption Service in monitoring hard-to-access areas, documenting illegal activities, and in actions to prevent and combat corruption and other threats to internal security. Through this donation, the EU4Moldova Resilience project reaffirms our commitment to supporting the Republic of Moldova in modernizing and strengthening its security institutions, in this way contributing to greater state resilience and citizen protection,” said Nicolae Soloviov, Project Manager. 

The project “EU4Moldova Resilience: Secure State, Resilient Communities”, funded by the European Union and implemented by Solidarity Fund PL in Moldova, has a total budget of €9.5 million. The initiative helps the Republic of Moldova strengthen its ability to respond to national security challenges while supporting European integration through the development of resilient communities and a safer environment for citizens.

The Ambassador of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova, Jānis Mažeiks, joined the participants of the “Moldova Youth Forum 2025” on August 28, 2025 – an event that brought together over 400 young people from across the country in Chișinău.

The forum gathered young people actively involved in their communities and inspiring change.

Together with the President of Moldova, Maia Sandu, EU Ambassador Jānis Mažeiks discussed with the participants the historic opportunity for the Republic of Moldova to become part of the European Union and the decisive role young people play in this journey.

“We spoke about what democracy means to each of us, what happens when we lose it, and how we can educate young people to value and protect it. It is important to have real democratic exercises already at school, university, and in communities – so that young people get used to participating in decision-making processes and understand the importance of their involvement,” emphasized President Maia Sandu.

Moldova Youth Forum is one of the most important national platforms dedicated to young leaders in the Republic of Moldova. Launched in 2022, the forum has succeeded in creating an open space for dialogue, innovation, and active participation, bringing together youth from all regions of the country to discuss key topics regarding the future of the Republic of Moldova.

Each edition has connected the young generation with decision-makers, experts, and international partners. This year’s agenda included plenary sessions, thematic discussions, and workshops on major topics of interest to young people – from civic participation and education to European integration, leadership, and combating disinformation.

Over 120 young participants of the two ongoing internship programmes, supported by the European Union and the Government of the Republic of Moldova, attended the final training session of the summer series focusing on justice field and fiscal reform in alignment with EU standards.

The first presentation was delivered by Gabriela Scutea, EU High Level Adviser for Justice and Prosecution. The discussion focused on identifying the principles specific to the areas of policy falling within the EU’s competence and on the checks and balances mechanisms that ensure the sustainability of policy implementation. Practical examples were used to illustrate the interactions between national institutions, either through the filter of constitutional principles or through the filter of the EU’s founding treaties. 

The second part of the session focused on “EU Alignment of Moldova Tax and Customs Regulations: New Perspectives in an Era of Reforms”, presented by Rosario De Blasio, Senior EU Expert in Customs and Tax Policy. Interns learned about practical approaches to harmonizing Moldova’s tax and customs legislation with EU norms, as well as key lessons from EU-supported initiatives aimed at strengthening regulatory alignment and promoting fiscal reforms.

Throughout the 2025 edition of the Internship Programme, participants attended eight information sessions covering a wide range of topics, including the reformation of large systems, introduction to public service, challenges of the energy sector, the interaction between Government and Parliament, banking supervision, citizen-centered public policies, public administration reform, professional integrity, cross-sectoral reform coordination, and digital government and innovation. Interns also engaged in informal discussions with EU Ambassadors and senior officials, gaining first-hand insight into the workings of public institutions.

The Internship Programme provided participants with practical experience and strengthened their skills in governance, policy-making, and EU integration. Working alongside EU High Level Advisers and national public servants, the interns developed competencies to meaningfully contribute to Moldova’s modernization and European integration efforts. The Programme was first piloted in 2022 as a joint initiative of the European Union Delegation and the Government of the Republic of Moldova, aiming to attract young people to public service and to encourage the return of young talented Moldovans studying abroad. Since its launch in 2022, 17 graduates have joined the civil service, including six who returned to Moldova from abroad.

A new thematic information session for interns of the two parallel programmes, was held today at Europe Café, as part of the capacity-building activities of the EU-supported Internship Programme.

At the start, interns were introduced to Europe Café, the main European Union information point in Chisinau. The centre serves as a hub for communication and visibility of the EU, providing information about the EU, its Member States, and the cooperation with Moldova. Interns were familiarized with the space, which welcomes everyone — from those curious about the EU and its history, to those seeking first-hand information on how EU support is improving citizens’ daily lives.  

The information session gathered over 30 interns and was chaired by Irina Cruceru, Programme Manager at the EU Delegation to Moldova. Topics included the EU accession process and the institutions of the European Union. Interns explored EU mechanisms and structures, engaged in Q&A, and gained insights to help them contribute to building the country’s European future.

The EU–Government of Moldova Joint Internship Programme offers young professionals two months of hands-on experience in public administration and a 200-euro monthly scholarship funded by the EU. Interns gain practical exposure to public service by working closely with public servants and EU High Level Advisers, attending interactive training sessions, visiting key institutions, and engaging with senior officials and European experts. The programme builds the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed for careers in public administration and policy-making, while contributing to Moldova’s European future. Since its launch as a pilot initiative in 2022, more than 190 young people have participated in the Programme, 17 of whom are now employed in Moldovan public institutions. 

The “EU & My Grandparents” contest has come to an end! The three winning teams of the national contest “EU & My Grandparents” have each won a trip to a city from Europe:

“Moștenitorii Europei” from Sîngerei – a trip to Paris
“EuroFetele din sat” from Brînza, Cahul – a trip to Athens
“EU4Family” from Zăicana, Criuleni – a trip to Prague

The contest “EU & My Grandparents” took place from 19 to 21 August in three regions of the country: north (Răuțel, Fălești district), south (Văleni, Cahul district) and centre (Stăuceni town). The event brought together dozens of teams, each consisting of two grandparents and two grandchildren from across the country, who demonstrated their knowledge of Europe’s history and culture, creativity, and team spirit.

This was the first edition of the “EU & My Grandparents” contest. It was organised by the Bureau for European Integration, in partnership with the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, the Ministry of Education and Research, the Ministry of Culture, the Association of Intellectual Games of Moldova and the National Youth Agency, with the support of the Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova, the Embassies of France, Greece and the Czech Republic in the Republic of Moldova, and UNFPA Moldova.

The Steering Committee of the EU-funded project “Moldova is Europe – Support for EU Integration” convened on 20 August at the Government House, to review progress achieved to date and to define the next steps in advancing Moldova’s European integration process.

The meeting was opened with welcoming remarks by Lilia Dabija, Deputy Secretary General of the Government of the Republic of Moldova, and Martina Spernbauer, Team Leader for Governance at the EU Delegation to the Republic of Moldova.

Pavlos Kollias, the Project Team Leader, presented the project’s implementation plan, highlighting achievements from the initial phase and outlining activities planned for the coming period. Steering Committee members engaged in a plenary discussion, providing feedback on the current state of play and identifying priorities for further steps.

In concluding the session, Lilia Dabija and Irina Cruceru, Programme Officer at the EU Delegation to the Republic of Moldova, underlined the importance of sustained cooperation between Moldovan authorities, the European Union, and international partners to ensure the project’s success.

The Steering Committee brought together representatives of the Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova, the Presidential Administration, the State Chancellery, the Prime Minister’s Office, as well as numerous line ministries including Finance, Internal Affairs, Environment, Justice, Agriculture and Food Industry, Energy, Economic Development and Digitalization, Education and Research, Labour and Social Protection, and Culture. Also represented were the Service for the Prevention and Combating of Money Laundering, the National Anticorruption Center, the Superior Council of Magistracy, the Superior Council of Prosecutors, the National Bank of Moldova, the National Commission for Financial Markets, and the Competition Council.

Launched in March 2025, “Moldova is Europe – Support for EU Integration” is a three-year initiative, fully funded by the European Union and implemented by a consortium of international partners. The project supports Moldova’s path towards EU membership by strengthening governance, the rule of law, economic development, resilient infrastructure, education, and environmental sustainability. With the support of eleven EU High Level Advisers and a network of international and local experts, Moldovan institutions are benefiting from long-term guidance and expertise. The project also enhances understanding of EU legislation and practices, while reinforcing Moldova’s institutional capacity to meet accession requirements and to deliver on the priorities of the national Growth Plan.

Following the conclusion and encouraging results, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the European Union (EU) announce the launch of the second capacity building and traning cycle for farms and food businesses. 

The EU-UNIDO initiative ”Standards Compliance, Capacity Building and Implementation Programme for small and medium entreprises (SMEs), food business operators (FBOs) and Farmers” supports the development of agri-food sector by offering local economic actors opportunities to improve their processes and product quality —focusing on food safety, animal welfare, and environmental protection. 

Who can participate – eligibility criteria 

The programme targets farmers and primary producers, as well as meat and dairy processors, who are at any stage of business development (early-stage, mid-level, or advanced), and who have already developed a product, tested it on the market, and are now looking to grow their business. 

Priority will be given to enterprises and farms that:

• are willing to improve their product quality standards

• are interested in developing the export potential of the EU market
• are open to a strategic approach to business development, in close collaboration with the Program’s experts, from identifying needs, resources and growth opportunities, to developing/improving the business plan

Programme structure 

Participants will benefit from:

• Theoretical and on-the-job practical training
• Individualized support to overcome daily operational challenges faced by SMEs, FBOs, and farm owners/managers
• Group coaching and training sessions, enabling the exchange of best practices
• Study visits to Europe and participation in international trade fairs for top-performing business entities

After the registration period, the programme structure, theoretical content, and the number of training and consultation hours will be adjusted according to the specific needs of the participants.

Programme topics

The programme is tailored to meet real-world needs and includes the following training modules:

• Module 1: Good Hygiene Practices
• Module 2: HACCP System Implementation
• Module 3: HACCP System Checklist
• Module 4: Food Safety Culture – Implementation and Evaluation
• Module 5: Food Safety Management System
• Module 6: Food Labelling and Packaging
• Module 7: Traceability, Product Recall, and Product Tracking
• Module 8: Self-monitoring programmes for Salmonella, Campylobacter, Listeria, and other pathogens
• Module 9: Techniques for monitoring residues and contaminants, including process surveillance, operations, traceability, and the control of veterinary drugs and additives
• Module 10: Hygiene Conditions in Dairy Farms
  • Mastitis Control and Udder Health
  • Raw Milk Quality Testing and Fraud Detection
• Module 11: Key Metrological and Regulatory Aspects in Food Safety Evaluation

Special emphasis will be placed on quality and safety standards in the dairy and meat industries, incorporating essential topics such as: antibiotic control, milk collection practices, interpretation of NTG and NCS tests, self-monitoring programmes for microbiological criteria, and the application of HACCP principles throughout the production chain.

Results of the first phase – a milestone for continuation

Between May and August of this year, over 50 participants from 30 local companies successfully completed the first stage of the programme, covering the first seven training modules focused on food quality and safety.

Although many participants already had significant professional experience, this training was a valuable opportunity to reconnect with and up-date on top-level standards and to engage with a community of professionals sharing the same aspirations.

Among them was Violeta Focșa, a quality management systems manager at a meat processing company: 

“I’m a food technology engineer by profession, with many years of experience in the food industry—from beer to meat and pastry products. Still, I was determined to be part of this programme. Here, not only did I review current legislation and process improvement methods, but I also had detailed discussions about the quality standards we all aim to achieve.
In our company—and in others I interacted with during these weeks—we know that the day will come when we can offer our products to consumers in European countries. That’s why we’re preparing now: investing in our teams and equipment, undergoing training, and aligning with EU market quality standards,” said Violeta Focșa.

Application process and deadlines

Interested companies are invited to complete the registration form by September 30, 2025. The implementation period of the program is October – December 2025.  

It is important to note that priority will be given to companies on the waiting list from the first cycle (who had previously expressed interest), as well as to new businesses applying for the first time.

The EU-UNIDO “Standards Compliance, Capacity Building and Implementation Programme for SMEs, FBOs and Farmers” is part of the project “Improving the standards compliance through increased national capacities for residue monitoring”, implemented by UNIDO and funded by the European Union, in partnership with teh Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry and the National Food Safety Agency.

For more details on the programme, please contact us via: e-mail: standards-moldova@unido.org; telephone number: +373 22 999 190. 

A new cohort of young professionals has completed their internship within the prestigious joint Programme of the European Union Delegation and the Government of the Republic of Moldova. Sixty-three students and graduates from the country and the diaspora, selected through a rigorous process and engaged for two months in public institutions, received today their well-deserved certificates during a festive ceremony attended by Deputy Prime Minister Cristina Gherasimov and the European Union Ambassador, Jānis Mažeiks.

The Internship Programme involved full-time activity – eight hours per day with physical presence – and was focused on key topics related to the European integration process. Throughout the internship, participants were guided daily by an EU High Level Adviser and the staff of the host institution. The young people also had the opportunity to attend weekly training sessions, gain in-depth understanding of institutional mechanisms, and carry out concrete tasks. For their engagement, each intern received a monthly allowance of 200 euros provided by the European Union.

“I am glad that this programme brings proactive young people into public administration. I encourage the interns to join the public sector and contribute to the European integration of the Republic of Moldova,” stated Deputy Prime Minister Gherasimov.

In turn, Ambassador Jānis Mažeiks highlighted the lasting impact of the programme:
“It is a special professional satisfaction to see how a project delivers concrete results in such a short time. I hope that many of those who still have to continue their studies will return in a year or two to their internship place, this time as employees,” the Ambassador noted.

The selection process was rigorous, structured in two stages: the pre-selection of application files – 225 in total – and the final interview, conducted in Romanian and English, before a panel composed of representatives of the EU Delegation, the Government, and the EU High Level Advisers’ Mission. The evaluation focused on fluency in English, motivation, knowledge of EU–Moldova relations, and other relevant skills.

“This experience helped me understand how I can actively contribute to the country’s development. It gave me confidence, skills, and a clear perspective on my career in the public sector,” said Corina Filipciuc, a participant in the programme.

Graduates who obtained positive evaluations may benefit from direct employment – without competition and without a probation period – in their host institution, provided they complete an additional month of internship.

Since the initiative’s launch in 2022, more than 190 young people have taken part in the programme, and 17 of them have been employed in public institutions. The programme continues to create real opportunities for young people, offering them a concrete platform to launch a career in public service.

Today it is launching the campaign “My result – the result of Moldova” – an initiative aimed at the value of the citizens of the Republic of Moldova: those who work, create, inspire and strengthen the sense of ‘home’. On the 34th anniversary of the proclamation of Moldova’s sovereignty, the campaign encourages people to rediscover the pride in the country through the eyes and stories of those who daily embody it, and to look to the future with confidence in a European context. 

The “My result – the result of Moldova” campaign is implemented by the Institute for European Policies and Reforms (IPRE) and the EU Information Centre “Europe Café”, with financial support from the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the Republic of Moldova. 

The campaign promotes a public-interest message that aims to strengthen an authentic sense of pride in one ‘s country and community among citizens, highlight the contribution of ordinary people to Moldova’s identity and beauty – such as farmers, craftsmen, artists, pupils and entrepreneurs – and connect these real stories with European values: freedom, dignity, solidarity and equal rights for all. 

The core element of the campaign is a video spot without narration but with evocative imagery, which captures the faces and gestures of the people of the Republic of Moldova -such as doctors, teachers, vine growers, athletes, pupils, artists, farmers etc. 

The video reveals stories of people from different parts of the country about dignity, work, care and hope. It conveys a clear message to all citizens of the Republic of Moldova, both at home and abroad: the true value of Moldova lies in its citizens – those who define it and shape its European path; Moldova belongs to its citizens and the path to the European Union is about equal opportunities, sustainable development and the right to dream and create at home. 

All citizens of the Republic of Moldova, both at home and abroad, are encouraged to actively take part in the campaign by sharing the video spot on social media with the hashtag #myresult, along with their own achievements, mentioning the people who inspired and supported them in achieving those results, using the same hashtag. 

The campaign “My result – the result of Moldova” is implemented by the Institute for European Policies and Reforms (IPRE) and the EU Information Centre “Europe Café”, with financial support from the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in the Republic of Moldova.

The interns of the programmes supported by the European Union and the Government of the Republic of Moldova explored the role of reforms as drivers of societal transformation during a training session dedicated to reform coordination and cross-sectoral synergies.

Dragos Ciuparu, EU High Level Adviser on Reforms Coordination, presented how public policies can be designed and implemented in a coherent way to generate positive effects across multiple sectors simultaneously. Reforms were analyzed not as mere administrative measures, but as complex mechanisms capable of profoundly transforming society. Through practical examples, participants explored how well-executed reforms can produce a ripple effect of positive outcomes, while the lack of coordinated approaches may limit the impact of investments. The session highlighted the benefits of cross-sectoral synergies, such as optimal resource use, increased efficiency of public interventions, and the stimulation of innovation.

This session was a valuable opportunity for young participants to gain insights into how public administration functions in practice and how well-coordinated reforms can shape a society. In a Moldova moving along the path of European integration, today’s interns can become the architects of tomorrow’s reforms.

Over the course of two months, participants in the Joint Internship Programme of the European Union and the Government of the Republic of Moldova have the chance to familiarize themselves with the inner workings of public administration in a professional and dynamic environment. With the support of a monthly EU-funded allowance of 200 Euro, interns are integrated into the work of state institutions, engaging in collaborative activities alongside public officials and the EU High Level Advisers. The programme offers not only valuable hands-on experience but also access to training sessions, institutional visits, and direct dialogues with high-level officials and European experts.

Through this initiative, the European Union actively contributes to building a new generation of young professionals capable of supporting reforms and promoting European values within the public sector. The financial, educational, and professional support provided enables interns to understand the complexity of the decision-making process, develop relevant skills, and contribute to societal transformation. In this way, the programme becomes a bridge between personal aspirations and civic responsibility, strengthening Moldova’s human capital and accelerating its European trajectory through the direct involvement of tomorrow’s leaders.

The Internship Programme is implemented under the project “Moldova is Europe – Support for EU Integration”, funded by the European Union. The initiative is designed to provide young people with practical experience in public institutions, while strengthening Moldova’s administrative capacity and supporting the country’s European integration path.

More than 120 young participants of the Internship Programme, supported by the European Union and the Government of the Republic of Moldova, took part in a new training module on public administration reform and professional integrity, further strengthening their knowledge and skills in these areas.

In the first part of the session, Victor Giosan, EU High Level Adviser on Public Administration Reform, delivered a comprehensive presentation about the importance of public administration as a pillar of democracy and of governance based on rule of law. During the session, Mr. Giosan provided a clear understanding of the approaches through which an administrative system can be fully modernized during the European integration process, and also – which are the main challenges in reforming public administration in the process of alignment to EU values and practices. The EU HLA emphasized that economic development and social mobilisation are key factors for strengthening democracy and social responsibility.        

In the second part of the training, Victor Armașu, expert in the Evaluation, Prevention, and Policy Implementation Directorate within the National Integrity Authority, spoke about the ethical dilemmas faced by the institution’s inspectors, overcoming integrity issues in a fair and transparent manner, and provided important insights related to increase of citizens’ trust in the state’s integrity institution. 

Through the Internship Programme, young people not only gain direct exposure to the functioning of public institutions, but also develop valuable skills in governance, integrity, and policy-making. By working side by side with EU High Level Advisers and national civil servants, interns are better prepared to enter the labour market and to contribute meaningfully to Moldova’s European integration and modernization efforts.

Furthermore, the Internship Programme provides young people with first-hand professional experience in Moldova’s public institutions under the guidance of EU High Level Advisers and national civil servants. The initiative aims to build the next generation of civil servants and to contribute to the long-term sustainability of public administration in the Republic of Moldova. 

The Internship Programme is implemented under the project “Moldova is Europe – Support for EU Integration”, funded by the European Union. The initiative is designed to provide young people with practical experience in public institutions, while strengthening Moldova’s administrative capacity and supporting the country’s European integration path.

On 15 August, staff of the Ministry of Finance and its subordinated institutions participated in a workshop on the implementation of the Growth Plan for the Republic of Moldova during 2025–2027, organised under the EU-funded project “Moldova is Europe – Support for EU Integration”.

In her opening remarks, Minister of Finance Victoria Belous addressed the reforms under the Growth Plan and underlined the Ministry’s responsibility in this process: “It is essential to have a clear plan detailing the actions required to achieve the proposed objectives. Implementing the reforms must remain our central goal, and our efforts will be supported by all subordinated institutions, to ensure the success and sustainability of the changes. Each stage will be closely monitored so that we can define and consolidate the results in the most efficient way possible,” stated the Minister.

Rosario De Blasio, EU Senior Expert on Customs and Tax Policy, emphasized the vital contribution of the Ministry of Finance to reform implementation process, through guaranteeing coherence, accountability, and sustainability at each stage.

Participants reviewed the current status of the country’s Growth Plan and the associated public finance reform agenda, focusing on proposed actions to strengthen economic governance — including securing revenues and modernizing customs and tax administrations — as well as on increasing resilience, improving public investment and public procurement systems, alongside other relevant areas.

The Ministry of Finance and its subdivisions play a key role in policy development, budget planning, and the implementation of key reforms that support sustainable and inclusive growth. A detailed action plan for each phase of the reform agenda has recently been prepared by specialized teams and is now in the final process of review and approval.

The workshop offered a constructive platform for discussion, analysis, and better understanding of the proposed implementation actions, with a particular focus on the priority areas and the agenda ahead.

By strengthening the institutional capacity of the Ministry of Finance and its subordinated bodies, the EU helps ensure that Moldova is better equipped to deliver on its Growth Plan 2025–2027, advance economic governance, and bring tangible benefits to its citizens on the country’s path towards European integration.