Social services – more accessible and more inclusive, in line with EU standards
The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection completed a comprehensive update of the regulatory framework governing over 80% of social services with the technical support of the EU-funded project ‘Moldova is Europe – Support for EU Integration’. As a result, the regulations and minimum quality standards on quality assurance for 37 social services were revised to strengthen their organisation and functioning, raise minimum standards, and better respond to population needs.
The revision of the legislative acts ensured compliance of the regulations and quality standards with the European Social Charter, the European Pillar of Social Rights and relevant EU directives and policy frameworks on social services. The updated framework establishes clearer and more coherent requirements for service delivery, quality assurance, and sustainability. As a result, the rights of social service users will be better protected, access will be ensured on an equal and non-discriminatory basis, services will be more responsive to real needs, and service provision will become more transparent and accountable.
The revised regulations cover a wide range of essential social services, including services for vulnerable children and families, persons with disabilities, older persons, people experiencing homelessness, survivors of violence, survivors of human trafficking, persons infected with HIV/AIDS and substitution therapy patients. Overall, the updated framework promotes people-centred, rights-based, and inclusive social services, with a strong focus on improving accessibility and service quality for vulnerable groups.
This process directly contributes to the implementation of Moldova’s national commitments under the Growth Plan for the Republic of Moldova, and namely Pillar 4 – Social Capital, provided by the European Union in support of the Republic of Moldova’s EU accession process. It culminated in the adoption of 20 Government Decisions for aligning 37 social services with EU standards.
By aligning the national social services framework with EU standards and principles, this reform strengthens social capital and represents an important step forward in advancing the Republic of Moldova’s EU integration path.
