United Nations Moldova achievements in 2021

“2021 marked the second year of the global COVID-19 pandemic - another challenging year for every country in the world, including the Republic of Moldova. The UN Moldova Country Team continued to support the Government of Moldova in its response to the COVID-19 pandemic. We have made good progress on the implementation of the Partnership Framework, with a focus on advancing the well-being of all people in Moldova, in particular the most vulnerable. Still many things remain to be done to improve the lives of the people of Moldova. Thus, I invite all to join our efforts and work together for a better future and a greener planet.” Simon Springett, Resident Coordinator of UN in Moldova.

The UN Moldova work in the country is guided by the United Nation–Republic of Moldova Partnership Framework for Sustainable Development (UN PFSD) 2018–2022, which outlines four priority areas:

• Governance, human rights and gender equality
• Sustainable, inclusive and equitable economic growth
• Environmental sustainability and resilience
• Inclusive and equitable social development

The UN Moldova continued to work closely with government institutions, private sector companies, CSOs and financing partners, including bilateral and multilateral donors, as well as various global funds. Partners’ contributions were essential for the implementation of United Nations activities in the country.

The United Nations achieved several notable results in the field of governance, human rights and gender equality, despite the challenging political situation and the difficulties posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Consequently, 63% of SDG indicators have disaggregated data fully or partially available. Gender equality was enhanced by reaching the target of 40% women in Parliament.  The National Report for Universal Periodic Review was produced and 58% of human rights recommendations were implemented. Additionally, half a million people were reached with messages on integrity and accountability and nearly 50 thousand people benefit from people-centred police services. More results here.

In addition, several advancements were made in the field of sustainable, inclusive and equitable growth, which led to: 1,900 entrepreneurs being aware of trade opportunities and COVID-19 recovery solutions for exporters, 778 MSMEs benefiting from financial and advisory assistance on green recovery, more than 286,000 people benefitting from enhanced public infrastructure and 1,332 jobs created or maintained, of which 682 for women. More results here

In the area of improving national and local capacities for increasing energy efficiency, applying sustainable natural resource management practices, and integrating climate change mitigation and adaptation priorities into Local Development Plans considerable progress has been made. The achieved results increased the preparedness of the Government and the people to face climate change challenges. Consequently, 19,548 people from three districts now benefit from access to clean and more efficient energy, while the number of districts applying climate-resilient practices increased to 26 in 2021.

With the United Nations’ technical and policy support, citizens now have enhanced access to, and ensured continuity of, health services, including essential health services, perinatal, sexual and reproductive health services, and the emergency care system. About 1,500 people benefited from HIV prevention services, and 128,462 youth were reached with comprehensive information on sexual and reproductive health and rights and healthy behaviours. The First Roma community mediators’ institution was established in Transnistria region. More results here

The United Nations continued to provide significant support to COVID-19 response and recovery efforts. Evidence-based decision-making and emergency planning was improved, access to essential equipment and supplies ensured, COVID-19 vaccination deployment supported and access to, and quality of, testing increased resulting in 15,000 tests per day. More results here

In total, the UN Moldova has spent $37 million in 2021 on programmes and projects that span across all Sustainable Development Goals.